Sam Cane is a hard-working openside flanker, but as All Blacks captain he lacks the aura of some who went before him, not least Richie McCaw.
Sam Cane and Johnny Sexton will shake hands later today in the Stade de France ahead of the coin toss with referee Wayne Barnes, with one captain very aware it could be his last ever game of professional rugby.
His opposing captain's career will continue after tonight - win, lose or draw - and with it will continue the questions around his status. Peter O'Mahony's unflattering comparison of Cane to legendary All Black openside and captain Richie McCaw during the second Test last summer struck a nerve, even if the man himself dismissed it as"good rugby banter".
Kieran Reid took over the captaincy until his own retirement from international rugby after the 2019 World Cup, with Cane deputising on occasion as he took up the captaincy of the Chiefs. When it comes to Cane, all that doubt is coming from the outside. Former All Black hooker James Parsons told the RTÉ Rugby World Cup Podcast this week that he retains the total faith of the squad.
"I am really sorry," said Cane of the relatively innocuous act."I feel awful and am deeply disappointed in myself. I am trying really hard to make contact with the person involved to apologise for my actions and make things right."
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Antoine Dupont ‘ready to suffer’ as France captain returns for South Africa clashScrumhalf returns only three weeks after breaking cheekbone for Sunday’s quarter-final with defending champions
Read more »
Hansen takes part in captain's run in Paris with heavily strapped calfThe right wing picked up a calf injury in last weekend’s win over Scotland.
Read more »
Mack Hansen injury update as Ireland Captain's Run takes place in ParisHansen took a bang on the calf in last Saturday's final Pool victory over Scotland
Read more »
Captain Tortue’s AW collection is here and they have some fab piecesHooray for knits!
Read more »
Meet the Donegal-born original All Blacks rugby captainWhen the New Zealand rugby team went on tour in 1905 they were captained by Dave Gallaher from Ramelton, Co Donegal
Read more »