Nelsen is standing in for regular skipper Tim Brown as he serves a one-match suspension.

He will lead out the team against New Caledonia in a World Cup qualifier and told stuff.co.nz: "Obviously it's an honour captaining in the Premiership but when it comes to your country, it's second to none.

"It is difficult for me because what they have done here is fantastic and Tim has led the team to an unbeaten start.

"I was happy to blend back in but they wanted me to do a job and have been so fantastic and understanding."