Hooker Codie Taylor is taking on more responsibility as part of the All Blacks' leadership group on their northern tour, after captaining the Crusaders to the 2020 Super Rugby Aotearoa title.
As veteran hooker Dane Coles has struggled over the past two years with injury and fitness concerns, Taylor has established himself as the All Blacks' first choice in the No.2 jersey and arguably one of their most important players.
As a guaranteed starter for coach Ian Foster, Taylor's importance as a senior player has been on show already this year, as the All Blacks have been forced to field several different captains.
Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea and Brodie Retallick have all led the side, and although Taylor is yet to taste the All Blacks captaincy himself, the 30-year-old relishes stepping up into the team's senior ranks.
"I've been moved into that group," he says. "I suppose Foz [Foster] has seen something in me, and I was pretty keen to get in there and help where I can.
"It's new. I'm not saying too much, but adding my piece where I can to help this group continue to be successful for the rest of this tour."
A campaign-ending Super Rugby Aotearoa injury to Scott Barrett in 2020 saw Taylor elevated to Crusaders' captaincy, as Scott Robertson's side claimed the title with six wins and one defeat.
Taylor was also a key cog in the Crusaders' 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa title, finishing as the competition's top tryscorer - a feat scarcely believable for a front-rower.
And while Super Rugby captaincy and All Blacks leadership are two different things, Taylor understands his new role on this year's northern hemisphere tour.
"You're just expected to set the standards and lead by example, on and off the field," he adds.
"As I said, I don't say too much. I like to think I have a pretty good rapport with most of the players, so they can approach me.
"You just want to do your part for the team, at the end of the day, that's what I suppose being a leader is.
"I have a little bit of experience with the Crusaders. It's a different role, but I do enjoy it.
"Performing on the rugby field speaks loudest when it comes to leadership. I just want to continue trying to do that."
Join Newshub for live updates of the All Blacks v Italy test from 2am Sunday.
