Former All Blacks centre Ngani Laumape has defended Ardie Savea and slammed the criticism which has flown the back-rower’s way since Scott Robertson’s sacking.
The 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year has been in the spotlight following NZ Rugby’s decision to remove the Crusaders legend as the All Blacks head coach.
Robertson departed after a mixed couple of years in charge, but a scathing player review is understood to have had a key role in the governing body’s huge call.
Savea was reportedly particularly unhappy with the regime under the 51-year-old and it was claimed that he was seeking to leave New Zealand for good if a change was not made.
Savea yet to speak out
He is currently on a sabbatical at Kobelco Kobe Steelers and has so far not given his side of the story, but plenty are coming out to bat for him.
That includes Laumape, who has played alongside Savea for the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, and is now at Moana Pasifika.
When asked about his long-time team-mate, the midfield powerhouse started off on a lighter note by joking: “Who’s that, sorry? Who’s that guy?”
He then addressed Savea’s absence from Moana this season before referencing the current controversy surrounding the All Blacks star.
“I don’t think anyone can fill those shoes but I think for me what he did [last season] not only inspired the young Pacific kids but also inspired a whole generation of old and young,” he said.
“I just want to credit my brother for being the leader that he is. I’ve been seeing that he’s been getting a lot of backlash in the media but, for me, he’s the man.”
All Blacks stars accuse critics of making Ardie Savea a ‘scapegoat’ over Scott Robertson backlash
Laumape was pressed further on the matter and whether it had ‘annoyed’ him that Savea had been singled out.
‘Supposed to be a private review’
“Yeah, for sure,” he responded. “There were more people that were in those meetings and it’s pretty bullcrap that only his name was out there.
“I know there’s probably about 10 players in that leadership group who were also in that review. If one name comes out then I feel like all of them should come out.
“It’s supposed to be a private review and it’s crazy how Ards’ name just comes out of that review.
“Like I said, he’s the man and I’m sure he’s enjoying his time at Kobe Steelers. No matter what, myself and the Moana boys have got his back.
“He will come back a better player and we’re looking forward to him coming back and putting on that Moana jersey.”