While the All Blacks squad announcement for the Ireland series caused much debate, coach Ian Foster has revealed the topic of captaincy was barely discussed.
Sam Cane has again been entrusted with the responsibility, two years after he was first named to replace Kieran Read.
So much was the confidence in Cane's ability to lead the side, Foster called him last week to ask if he would again captain them for the three tests in July.
The 30-year-old endured a luckless 2021, dealing with a major knee injury, COVID-19 and even stomach viruses, but Foster has praised Cane for his 2022 performances, as he led the Chiefs to the Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals.
"I love the debate, and I love the fact that people care and everyone's got their favourites," said Foster. "Two years ago, I signalled that I felt quite clear that Sam Cane was the All Blacks captain.
"He had major surgery last year and while he came on the northern hemisphere tour, he wasn't really in the position to captain the team, because he was only available for the last couple of tests.
"He's had a couple of niggles, and COVID and stomach bugs this year, which has infected most players, but do we trust him on the big stage? Yes, we do.
"I love his leadership and I think he's the right person for the job."
Cane looks forward to an extended run for the All Blacks and hopes to repay the faith shown by the selectors.
"I was lucky that Foz gave me the call on Saturday, and gave me a little bit of a heads-up and asked if I'd be skipper, which is a massive honour," he said.
"It means a heck of a lot, it's a huge honour and a privilege. I really enjoyed the challenge in my first full season and last season couldn't have gone much further from the plan.
"To be able to get back in there and put my best foot forward, and try to lead us the best I can is something I'm looking forward to."
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