Richie McCaw knows exactly what it takes to lead the All Blacks.
The New Zealand legend captained his country to two Rugby World Cup wins. He finally retired from rugby in 2015.
McCaw has now made his feelings clear on Ardie Savea. The current All Blacks captain remains one of the biggest stars in the game.
McCaw loves watching Savea
Speaking to The Times, McCaw picked out Savea when discussing the players he still enjoys watching.
He said: “I love watching the old dog Ardie Savea change the momentum of Tests with his game-breaking carries or jackals from the back row.”
That is huge praise from one of the greatest players of all time.
Savea's rise started during McCaw's era. He joined the senior New Zealand squad as an apprentice in 2013.
The BBC reported on Savea as a possible long-term successor to McCaw before the great number seven retired.
McCaw was also full of praise for Savea in 2016. He called him “terrific” while discussing New Zealand's options at openside flanker.
McCaw's message to Savea
McCaw also sent Savea a message after he became All Blacks captain.
His advice was short and simple: “Give it more than you ever have.”
McCaw knows all about the pressure of the job. He won 148 caps and led New Zealand during a golden period.
Savea has his own style. However, like McCaw, he often leads through his actions on the pitch.
More than a decade after Savea first joined the All Blacks set-up, McCaw clearly likes what he sees.
Five quirky facts about Richie McCaw
1. He became a pilot
Flying has long been one of McCaw's biggest interests. After rugby, he became a helicopter pilot and has taken part in major flying events in New Zealand.
2. He was knighted
McCaw became Sir Richie McCaw in 2016. He received the honour for his services to New Zealand.
3. He turned down an earlier honour
McCaw was offered a knighthood after the 2011 World Cup. He turned it down because he was still playing rugby.
4. He played his final Test in a World Cup final
McCaw's last All Blacks appearance could hardly have been bigger. He captained New Zealand to victory over Australia in the 2015 World Cup final.
5. He reached 100 Tests as captain
McCaw became the first player in Test rugby history to captain his country 100 times. He eventually finished with 110 Tests as All Blacks captain.
