Rugby World Cup champions New Zealand have the next All Blacks cast ready to excel

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New Zealand capped an astonishing four years to retain the World Cup on Saturday and established themselves as the greatest team in the sports history.

The likes of Dan Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith dazzled in the showpiece event at Twickenham under the guidance of commanding captain Richie McCaw.

The Kiwi talent factory continues to churn out players capable of excelling in the international game, here are the All Blacks ready to step up… 

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw lifts the Webb Ellis trophy after New Zealand's 34-17 victory over Australia

Same Cane keeps his eye on the ball as he is tackled during the semi-final clash with South Africa

SAM CANE

Seen as the heir to Richie McCaw at openside flanker. A sign of how highly he is regarded is that the Chiefs No 7 captained New Zealand against Argentina at this World Cup. However, he faces strong competition from Ardie Savea — brother of wing Julian Savea.

Sam Cane (left) is seen as the heir to McCaw and Joe Moody (right) is poised to be the next All Black No 1

JOE MOODY

The former wrestler was called up to this World Cup in light of the injury which ended Tony Woodcock’s illustrious Test career as his country’s leading loosehead prop. The Crusaders player is poised to usurp Wyatt Crockett as the next All Black No 1.

All Black hooker Dane Coles (second left) celebrates New Zealand's World Cup triumph in the dressing room

DANE COLES

Already firmly entrenched as the first-choice All Black hooker — his rise to prominence has softened the blow of Keven Mealamu’s retirement and given Hansen’s side an added dimension with his athletic ability and pace as an attacking asset. 

Sonny Bill Williams (right) gave his winner's medal away to a fan but received a new one on Sunday night

Sonny Bill Williams, facing Wales in the World Cup, had a fine campaign as New Zealand retained their title

SONNY BILL WILLIAMS

The cross-code superstar had a major hand in this triumph, with his outstanding second-half impact at Twickenham capping a fine campaign. He will focus on Sevens ahead of the Olympics, before striving to fill the void left by Ma’a Nonu.

AARON CRUDEN

His serious knee injury shattered his hopes of challenging for the No 10 shirt at this World Cup, but this Hamilton-based Chief is first in line to replace Dan Carter, although he is up against several rivals: Colin Slade, Beauden Barrett and Lima Sopoaga.

Aaron Cruden (left) and Malakai Fekitoa (right) are in line to take over as regular starters for the All Blacks

MALAKAI FEKITOA

The Tongan-born centre made his breakthrough against England last year and has served as Conrad Smith’s outside-centre deputy since. He will now aim to firmly establish himself in midfield, as an elusive and dangerous broken-field runner.