Despite standing by coach Ian Foster amid a firestorm of criticism last year, Sam Cane's revealed he's not sure about whether he's still wanted as All Blacks captain.
Cane was staunch in his defence of the embattled coach, who eventually oversaw an upturn in form that helped him retain his role.
But just months out from the World Cup, Cane's told Newshub he hasn't spoken to Foster about whether he'll manage to keep his own job.
"Not about All Blacks captaincy," Cane told Newshub, when queried if he'd had any discussions on the topic with the current All Blacks head coach.
Last year, Cane stood resolutely by the under-fire Foster as a barrage of criticism rained upon the coach after a string of historically poor All Blacks results, including a first-ever home defeat to Argentina and home-series loss to Ireland.
But last week, Foster said he wouldn't disclose who will lead the side at the World Cup in France.
Cane maintains he still wants the role but makes no assumptions about his prospects.
"It's an honour to be asked in the past, but I never go into another campaign or squad-naming assuming that's going to be the case," he said.
Although, Cane has been part of recent wider leadership meetings, there's been no confirmation if he'll continue as captain.
"I've been around long enough that you've got to earn your spot, continually play well, and be consistent," Cane added.
"That's obviously my focus here at the Chiefs."
And he'll have a chance to do so on Saturday against the defending champion Crusaders, as he returns from a neck injury.
Cane missed last week's win over the Fijian Drua with what was thought to be concussion, though it was later proven to be neck stiffness.
Regardless, he's encouraging others to listen to their bodies.
"I've seen enough teammates and been around long enough to know the effects concussion can have.
"I'm always going to make smart decisions based on that and for my future."
A future which may not involve the All Blacks captaincy.
