Ardie Savea is understood to be exploring options to play in Europe. Photo / PhotosportWorld-class loose forward Savea, who captained the All Blacks several times in Scott Barrett’s injury absence last year, is among those believed to be seriously unhappy. Unless major coaching changes are made, Savea may not return to the All Blacks. At this stage, though, he remains contracted through to 2027 and NZ Rugby expects he will return from Japan. Savea is believed to have delivered strong feedback to NZR chairman David Kirk on last year’s Grand Slam tour.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 14, 2026 09:30 UTC