With 20-week-old twins in her arms, the last thing that former Black Fern Aroha Savage was expecting was a call from nib Blues coach Willie Walker.

The call was to inquire if Savage, a 33-capped No 8 for the Black Ferns and formerly with Auckland, Counties Manukau and Northland, would consider a return to the game.

After careful thought, Savage agreed, but when the next call came from Walker, it shocked her more. It was to ask if she would accept the role as captain for the inaugural Sky Super Rugby Aupiki competition.