Scott Barrett to Miss Nations Championship Due to Surgery Setback

New Zealand rugby captain Scott Barrett is poised to miss the Nations Championship tests and a South African tour due to back surgery. Barrett's absence creates a leadership gap in the All Blacks, with Ardie Savea likely to step up as captain under new coach Dave Rennie.

New Zealand rugby captain Scott Barrett will miss the upcoming Nations Championship and the South African tour as he undergoes back surgery. The Canterbury Crusaders confirmed that the 32-year-old will be sidelined for up to five months after non-invasive treatments failed to alleviate his condition.

Barrett, who started the season on a non-playing sabbatical due to ankle and Achilles issues, was expected to return in April but will not participate following this recent setback. His absence is a significant blow to the All Blacks, who will begin their campaign against France on July 4 before facing Italy and Ireland.

With Barrett out, loose forward Ardie Savea emerges as a leading candidate for captaincy under the guidance of new coach Dave Rennie. Barrett's Crusaders and All Blacks colleague Will Jordan is also sidelined, dealing with a calf issue that has ended his Super Rugby season prematurely.