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Kurt Eklund Named Māori All Blacks Captain: New Squad announced
Table of Contents
- 1. Kurt Eklund Named Māori All Blacks Captain: New Squad announced
- 2. Eklund To Lead Māori All Blacks Squad
- 3. New Talent Infusion
- 4. Māori All Blacks 2025 Squad List
- 5. The Enduring Significance of the Māori All Blacks
- 6. What are Kurt Eklund’s key strengths that led to his appointment as captain of the Māori All Blacks?
- 7. Kurt Eklund: The Rising Star Named Captain of the Māori All Blacks
- 8. Who is Kurt Eklund? Key Facts & Background
- 9. Eklund’s Early Career and Rise to Prominence
- 10. Leadership qualities and Impact on the Māori All Blacks
- 11. Expected Impact on his Gameplay
- 12. Where to Catch Kurt Eklund in Action
Auckland,New Zealand – Kurt Eklund (Ngāti Kahu) has been announced as the new captain of the Māori All Blacks,heralding a fresh chapter for the team. The declaration coincides with the unveiling of a 29-man squad set to face the Japan XV in Tokyo and Scotland in Whangārei in upcoming matches.
Eklund To Lead Māori All Blacks Squad
The 2025 squad, hand-picked by Māori All blacks Head Coach Ross Filipo (Ngāti Awa) and Roger Randle (Ngāti Awa), features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent. EklundS appointment underscores his leadership qualities and extensive experiance within the Māori All blacks setup.
“This team demands a strong leader with mana, and Kurt has shown that quality and more over a long period of time,” Filipo stated, highlighting Eklund’s impact across various teams, including Auckland, Bay of Plenty, and the Blues. “He has a lot of experience throughout the squad and that will be a strength for what will be two tough matches.”
New Talent Infusion
The squad boasts 11 uncapped players, injecting youthful energy and new perspectives into the team.Among the new faces are 20-year-old Blues midfielder Xavi Taele, the squad’s youngest member, and 31-year-old Taranaki prop Jared Proffit.
Filipo emphasized the significance of representing the Māori All Blacks, stating, “This is a special team, and these players know they are here to represent something bigger than themselves – their whakapapa, their language, the jersey, and Aotearoa.” The team has convened in Auckland to commence preparations before their departure for Japan.
Did You Know? The Māori All blacks have a rich history, dating back to 1888, showcasing Māori culture and talent on the international stage.
Māori All Blacks 2025 Squad List
(Iwi, Province, Super Rugby Club)
* denotes new cap
| Position | Player | Iwi/Province/Club |
|---|---|---|
| Props / Poumua | Benet Kauranga | Eatuanui, jared of Plenty / Bay of Plenty – Tashawl / Tasmanes (Ngaou Tarani), Monuou – (Ngāti Porou – (Ngāti Porou – (Ngāti Porou -), Tashua Amaru / Waikato / Blues |
| Hikers / Coded | Jacob Devery * | Hawke’s Bay / Hurricanes |
| Hikers / Coded | Kurt Eklund | Ngāti Kahu / Blues |
| Locks / Pouwhītiki | Zache Gallagher * | Te Atua / Hurricanes |
| Locks / Pouwhītiki | Laughlan MckenNell | Ngāti Porou / Hawke’s Bay / Hurricanes |
| Loose forwards / Pouwātea | nikora Broughton | Ngaaraa, Ngāti Ruanui / Highrian Grace |
| Loose forwards / pouwātea | Cullen Grace | Tuhoe / Highlanders |
| Half Backs / bracks | Kemara Hauiti-Parake | (Ngai, Ngāti Porou / Auckland |
| Half backs / Bracks | Sam Nick | NgāThland / Blues |
| First five-eighths / Topatahi | Rivez Reihana | Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hine / Northland / Crusaders |
| first five-eighths / Topatahi | Kaleb trask | Ngāpuhi / Chiefs |
| Midfield / Topapū | Corey Evans | Te Aupouri / Northland / Blues |
| midfield / Topapū | Bailyn Sullivan | Ngāti Tarani / Auckland / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato / Waikato |
| Outside Backs / Pouwaho | Cole Forbes | Ngāti Awa / Bay of Plenty / Blues |
| Outside Backs / Pouwaho | Jonah Lowe | Ngāti Pikiao / Hawke’s Bay / High Ball |
| Outside Backs / Pouwaho | Zorn Sullivan | Ngāti Kahungani Bay / Blues |
| Injury Cover / builder | Kade Banks * | Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Whātua / North Harbor / Hurricanes |
The Enduring Significance of the Māori All Blacks
What are Kurt Eklund’s key strengths that led to his appointment as captain of the Māori All Blacks?
Kurt Eklund: The Rising Star Named Captain of the Māori All Blacks
The world of rugby is abuzz with the proclamation that Kurt Eklund has been appointed as the captain of the Māori All Blacks. This prestigious role marks a meaningful milestone in Eklund’s already impressive career. This article explores Kurt Eklund’s journey, his leadership qualities, and the impact he’s expected to make as captain. Explore his rugby career, and his potential for the team in 2025.
Who is Kurt Eklund? Key Facts & Background
Kurt Eklund is a prominent figure in New Zealand rugby, known for his skill, dedication, and outstanding performance. He has made a name for himself through his exceptional abilities on the field and his commitment to the sport. Eklund’s career highlights include:
- Playing Position: Hooker
- Super Rugby teams: Key contributions with leading teams.
- International Recognition: Represented New Zealand at the highest level.
Born and raised in New Zealand, Eklund’s journey began at a young age, fueled by his passion for rugby. His early exposure to the sport and rigorous training prepared him for the elite level.
Eklund’s Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Eklund’s career started with his initial club team, followed by professional progress and his selection for Super Rugby, showcasing his talent and hard work. His skill and teamwork led to a steady rise in rugby standings, which is how he received his high-profile position.
Leadership qualities and Impact on the Māori All Blacks
Kurt Eklund’s leadership is not just about his skills on the field; it’s about the manner in which he motivates and leads his teammates. Eklund’s captaincy is expected to bring:
- Team Cohesion: Strengthening collaboration and dynamics.
- Strategic Prowess: Improving game performance.
- mentorship: The ability to guide younger players and help them to improve.
his proven track record and the positive impact he has on others make him a standout leader. His ability to strategize during matches is second to none.
Expected Impact on his Gameplay
The appointment of Eklund as captain is expected to positively influence the Māori All Blacks through a variety of factors. Eklund’s understanding of the game, team’s strategy and techniques will enhance coordination, boosting the team’s performance.
Here are some key impacts:
| Impact Area | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|
| Team Morale | Higher and more energetic |
| On-Field Performance | Increased strategic execution in matches |
| Team Mentorship | The younger player’s development |
Where to Catch Kurt Eklund in Action
Fans eager to see Kurt Eklund in action can find the latest match schedules and team selections on official sports channels. Below are some resources:
- Sky Sport: Official broadcaster.
- All Blacks Official Website: Schedules, news, and team updates.
- Rugby New Zealand: National rugby website.
