Sam Cane

Former All Blacks captain and 100+ test veteran

Overview

Sam Cane is one of the most respected leaders in modern New Zealand rugby — a 100-test All Black, former captain of the team and one of the country's most decorated openside flankers. Across more than a decade in the black jersey he led the All Blacks through highs, lows and one of the most scrutinised periods in the team's history. On stage he speaks with the calm, considered honesty that defined his captaincy.

Who is Sam Cane? Born in Reporoa and raised in the Bay of Plenty, Sam made his Chiefs debut in 2011 and his All Blacks debut in 2012. He was part of the 2015 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, became All Blacks captain in 2020, and led the team to the 2023 Rugby World Cup final in Paris. After 100+ tests for the All Blacks and 27 as captain, he transitioned to Suntory Sungoliath in Japan to focus on family and the next chapter of his career.

Career Highlights • 100+ tests for the All Blacks • 27 tests as All Blacks captain • 2015 Rugby World Cup winner • 2023 Rugby World Cup finalist as captain • Chiefs centurion in Super Rugby • Three-year contract with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan

Key Speaking Themes • Leadership under intense public scrutiny • Resilience after injury, setback and disappointment • Team culture and what makes the All Blacks tick • Performing under pressure on the biggest stage • Family, identity and life after elite sport

What Your Audience Will Gain Sam is calm, thoughtful and unmistakably honest. Audiences leave with a clearer picture of what real leadership looks like under pressure — the daily, unglamorous work behind the highlights reel — and how to lead through criticism without losing your team.

Ideal For • Leadership and CEO conferences • Sales kick-offs and team offsites • Sport, performance and culture events • Awards nights and gala dinners • Schools and youth leadership programmes

Frequently Asked Questions...

What does Sam Cane speak about? Leadership, resilience, team culture, performing under pressure and what it's really like to lead a team like the All Blacks.

How many tests did Sam Cane play for the All Blacks? Sam played more than 100 tests for the All Blacks, including 27 as captain.

When was Sam Cane appointed All Blacks captain? 2020, succeeding Kieran Read after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

What did Sam Cane achieve at Rugby World Cups? He was part of the 2015 World Cup-winning squad and captained the All Blacks to the 2023 final in Paris.

Where is Sam Cane playing now? Sam plays his club rugby for Suntory Sungoliath in Tokyo, on a long-term contract.
Is Sam Cane available for keynotes and panels? Yes. Sam is available for keynotes, panels and after-dinner appearances across NZ and Australia on leadership, culture and resilience.