All Blacks Coaching Review
The New Zealand Rugby (NZR) board is reportedly reviewing the position of All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, 20 months before the next Rugby World Cup. This consideration follows a two-year period under Robertson, characterized by varied team performance. Robertson's coaching record since succeeding Ian Foster includes 20 wins out of 27 matches, a 74 percent success rate.
Factors in the Review
Factors contributing to the board's current review reportedly include:
- The departure of two coaches, notably Leon MacDonald, citing "philosophical differences."
- Observations regarding the team's attacking strategies.
- Perceived issues with the team's ability to adapt and problem-solve during matches.
- Significant defeats to South Africa and England in 2025, which impacted the team's Grand Slam aspirations.
The ongoing assessment of Robertson's position has intensified following a recent review led by NZR chairman David Kirk, former player Keven Mealamu, and former high-performance manager Don Tricker. The New Zealand Herald reported that some senior players, including Ardie Savea, were evaluating their futures in New Zealand due to internal concerns within the All Blacks squad. The Herald indicated that feedback specifically targeted Robertson and his senior assistant Scott Hansen.
A potential decision on Robertson's future would precede the anticipated return of Crusaders flyhalf Richie Mo’unga, who previously won eight Super Rugby titles under Robertson.
Potential Successors
Discussions regarding the team's direction have been ongoing for over a year, with some influential figures reportedly expressing criticism of Robertson's coaching style, characterizing it as culture-focused and less hands-on.
Jamie Joseph, currently coaching the All Blacks XV and the Highlanders, is considered a leading candidate to succeed Robertson. Joseph previously coached the Highlanders to a Super Rugby title in 2015 before taking on the role of Japan coach, leading them to a quarter-final appearance in the 2019 World Cup. He rejoined the Highlanders in 2024 after concluding his role with Japan following the 2023 World Cup. If appointed, Joseph is expected to seek to retain forwards coach Jason Ryan and may attempt to recruit Tony Brown, currently with the Springboks, to his coaching staff.
Joe Schmidt, the departing Wallabies coach, is also mentioned as a candidate, despite his stated desire to return to New Zealand for family reasons. Other potential candidates include Bristol coach Pat Lam and Blues coach Vern Cotter. Former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie is also reportedly considering leaving his Japanese club, Kobe, and has support from figures such as former All Blacks coach Graham Henry.