Beauden Barrett Gets All Blacks Captaincy, Digi Mart USA News: Beauden Barrett has been named captain of the All Blacks for their test against Wales, marking a remarkable turnaround for the 35-year-old, according to a New Zealand Herald column by rugby writer Gregor Paul.
The 2026 season was difficult for Barrett. Playing for the Blues early in the year, he struggled with his passing, kicking and game management, and at one point he was unexpectedly recategorised as a fullback after an unconvincing game at No 10 against the Stormers during the South Africa tour.
Doubts about his future grew. Former All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry admitted he had wondered whether Barrett’s days at the top level were over, though he stressed he had never questioned Barrett’s professionalism or influence on a team.
His chance came when Ruben Love and then Richie Mo’unga were ruled out of the Bledisloe series. Barrett responded with sharp passing, clever kicking, incisive running and a 70-metre intercept in Sydney, and he scored two tries in Edinburgh the week before the Wales test.
Head coach Dave Rennie said Barrett is a strong contributor to the team and that his experience and commitment to the team made him the right choice. Rennie added that Barrett has gone out of his way to help players competing with him for places.
Barrett’s younger brother Scott, who captained the All Blacks in 2024 and 2025, will not be captain. Rennie said Scott has performed exceptionally well since returning in October after a six-month sabbatical and surgery on a bulging disc, and that he will hold a leadership role without the captaincy.
