World Cup winning coach Sir Graham Henry believes it's only a matter of time before "young fella" Richie McCaw goes down on one knee to receive a knighthood of his own.

Henry explained that he wasn't surprised by McCaw's decision to decline the honour of a knighthood while he is still playing.

This is not the first time McCaw turned down an invitation from the British Royal family, after declined an invitation from Prince William to his wedding last year. McCaw believed it would have been inappropriate as he was focused on the Super Rugby season and the upcoming World Cup.

The 31-year-old is reported to have told New Zealand prime minister John Key that he felt uncomfortable accepting the title before the end of his playing career.

Opposition teams would have more than enough sledging ammunition against the All Blacks skipper, with comments at the bottom of a ruck such as: "Forgive me your highness, I mean Sir Richie!"

However, Henry is sure McCaw will be recognised for his achievements in the future.

"He is a young fella and he has a few years ahead of him playing rugby," Henry told Allblacks.com.

"He will probably feel uncomfortable about that, particularly when he is captaining the side and is still playing rugby.

"But I am sure his time will come."