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Scott Robertson Actively Seeking New Coaching Role Following All Blacks Departure
Former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has wasted no time in pursuing new opportunities after his unexpected dismissal from New Zealand Rugby earlier this year, according to reports from New Zealand media.
Robertson, who guided the Crusaders to seven Super Rugby titles, was relieved of his duties following an extensive review of the 2025 international season. New Zealand Rugby stated the All Blacks “weren’t on track” for the 2027 Rugby World Cup under his leadership, prompting a search for his replacement.
The search committee, which includes former All Blacks Keven Mealamu and Dane Coles, along with head of high performance Don Tricker, acting NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster, and chairman David Kirk, has established strict criteria for potential candidates. The requirements specify that prospective coaches must be New Zealanders with international head coaching experience, significantly narrowing the field of contenders.
Dave Rennie and Jamie Joseph have emerged as frontrunners, both meeting the necessary criteria. Reports indicate that NZ Rugby has also approached Ian Foster and Sir Steve Hansen, encouraging them to apply for the position. Other qualified candidates include Warren Gatland, Wayne Pivac, and Kieran Crowley, although it remains unclear if they have submitted applications.
According to broadcaster Martin Devlin, New Zealand Rugby is expected to announce Robertson’s successor next week, deliberately timing the announcement to avoid overshadowing the Super Rugby opening round.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand Herald reports that Robertson is actively exploring his next career move. His representatives have reportedly contacted the Queensland Reds to inquire about their head coaching position, which at the time was set to be vacated by Les Kiss. The report indicates that Robertson’s name was also put forward for consideration at English Premiership club Harlequins, which is currently seeking a director of rugby following Danny Wilson’s departure.
Robertson’s departure agreement with NZ Rugby includes a 12-month restraint of trade clause preventing him from joining a tier one international team immediately. However, the agreement contains a provision allowing him to join a top team once the All Blacks have played that nation this calendar year.
This could potentially open doors for Robertson to join Scotland, where current head coach Gregor Townsend faces mounting pressure, particularly after their Six Nations opening round defeat. However, the All Blacks will not face Scotland until November, creating a significant waiting period. Glasgow Warriors’ Franco Smith is widely considered the frontrunner should Scottish Rugby decide to terminate Townsend’s contract early.
Robertson has previously expressed his ambition to coach two different teams at Rugby World Cups. While tier one opportunities appear limited in the short term, he could potentially work with a tier two nation, as World Rugby often provides funding for smaller nations to hire coaching assistants for global tournaments.
In an intriguing twist, the Herald has floated what it describes as an “outrageous” yet “plausible” theory that Robertson could join Rassie Erasmus’s Springboks coaching team. Respected journalist Gregor Paul suggests this unlikely scenario might appeal to Erasmus, known for his innovative thinking, as a psychological tactic designed to unsettle the All Blacks ahead of their anticipated quarterfinal meeting at next year’s tournament.
Paul elaborates on this theory, suggesting a working conspiracy that Erasmus may have been involved in leaking information about Robertson’s dismissal to Irish media. The Irish Independent was first to break news of Robertson’s sacking and provided detailed information about NZ Rugby’s process, leading to speculation about Erasmus potentially using connections from his time with Munster to destabilize the All Blacks.
With the rugby world watching closely, Robertson’s next move could have significant implications for the international rugby landscape as teams position themselves for the 2027 Rugby World Cup cycle.
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14 Comments
This coaching transition for the All Blacks will be closely watched. The criteria seem quite specific, favoring experienced Kiwi coaches. It will be interesting to see if any dark horses emerge amid the reported frontrunners.
You’re right, the requirements are pretty stringent. It narrows the field significantly and likely rules out some potential international candidates.
The All Blacks are such an iconic rugby team, so this coaching decision will be crucial for their future. I’m curious to see how the selection process unfolds and what direction the team decides to take.
Absolutely, the All Blacks’ legacy is unparalleled. This is a pivotal moment for the team as they look to the 2027 World Cup.
The All Blacks have always been a dominant force in international rugby. This coaching change will be critical in determining their path forward and whether they can regain that winning edge.
Absolutely. The new coach will need to chart a clear vision and strategy to restore the All Blacks’ position as one of the world’s top rugby powers.
Interesting to see the claims of misinformation from Erasmus. I wonder if that will factor into the selection process or if the committee will remain focused on the criteria they’ve outlined.
Good point. The Erasmus situation could add an extra layer of complexity, but the committee seems determined to keep the process objective and transparent.
This coaching transition is a pivotal moment for the All Blacks as they look to the 2027 World Cup. The selection process will be closely watched, and the new coach will have big shoes to fill.
Definitely. The new coach will need to navigate the team through a critical period and build a strong foundation for future success on the international stage.
I’m curious to see if any up-and-coming Kiwi coaches make a strong case to be considered, or if the committee sticks to the more established names like Rennie and Joseph.
That’s a good point. There may be some dark horses out there who could bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the team.
The criteria for the new All Blacks coach seem quite rigorous, with a focus on international experience and a Kiwi background. This could limit the pool of candidates but also ensure a strong fit for the team.
Agreed. The specific requirements reflect the high standards and expectations the All Blacks have for their leadership. It will be a challenging but crucial decision for the committee.