All Blacks' Scott Barrett Sidelined, Ardie Savea to Lead Rugby Championship Opener

The All Blacks announced that captain Scott Barrett will miss their first two Rugby Championship games against Argentina due to a finger injury. Ardie Savea is set to take over as captain. Additionally, Harry Plummer has joined the squad to cover for Stephen Perofeta, who is also facing injury issues.

The All Blacks have confirmed that captain Scott Barrett will miss their initial Rugby Championship tests against Argentina while recovering from a finger injury. In Barrett's absence, Ardie Savea will take over as team captain.

Barrett recently underwent surgery following a finger injury sustained during a 47-5 victory over Fiji in San Diego.

Meanwhile, Harry Plummer has been added to the squad as a cover for Stephen Perofeta, who has a slight injury. New Zealand will open their title defense with matches against the Pumas on August 10 and 17, before traveling to South Africa for games against the Springboks on August 31 and September 7.

(With inputs from agencies.)