HIGHLANDERS captain Timoci Tavatavanawai could make history as the first Fijian-born player to captain the All Blacks.
With Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph widely regarded as the frontrunner for the vacant All Blacks head coach position, many expect Joseph to appoint Tavatavanawai as captain during his tenure.
History shows that Super Rugby coaches promoted to the All-Blacks head coach role often select their Super Rugby captains to lead the national team.
Recently, outgoing coach Scott Robertson followed this pattern by naming his Crusaders captain, Scott Barrett, as All Blacks captain.
Before him, Ian Foster appointed his Chiefs captain, Sam Cane, despite considerable public criticism in New Zealand.
Given this pattern, many believe Tavatavanawai is destined to become the next All Blacks captain should Joseph be appointed head coach.
Tavatavanawai’s heroic performance in the thrilling 25-23 season opener against reigning champions the Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin last week has only strengthened his case.
His decisive contribution prompted coach Joseph to describe him as the “ultimate leader,” praising his ability to influence outcomes against top-tier opposition, especially while recovering from a broken arm and knee surgery.
If Tavatavanawai maintains his destructive form and remains injury-free, the All Blacks captaincy will be his, should Joseph be appointed head coach in the coming weeks.
The Highlanders will host the Chiefs at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin this Saturday at 6:05 pm (Fiji Time).
