The All Blacks' Coaching Crisis: Who's Next?
In a shocking turn of events, Scott Robertson has been relieved of his duties as the All Blacks' head coach, leaving a void that needs to be filled. With the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, New Zealand Rugby faces a daunting task to find a successor who can steer the team back on course.
Front Runner: Jamie Joseph - The Experienced Contender
As the saying goes, "third time's the charm," and Jamie Joseph might just prove that adage right. Currently preparing the Highlanders for the upcoming season, Joseph has twice been overlooked for the All Blacks gig. But with his extensive experience and a contract with NZ Rugby, he's a strong frontrunner.
Joseph's international credentials are impressive, having led Japan through two Rugby World Cup cycles and reaching the quarter-finals in 2019. His coaching resume includes Super Rugby teams like the Highlanders and Sunwolves, and even a stint with the Barbarians. Hiring Joseph could also bring Tony Brown back to New Zealand, a coach NZ Rugby has been keen to sign.
In the Mix: Rennie, Schmidt, and Foster - A Trio of Contenders
Widening the net, we find three coaches who could be in the running: Dave Rennie, Joe Schmidt, and Ian Foster. The All Blacks job rarely becomes available, especially in this manner, where the union is open to considering multiple candidates.
Foster, the former head coach, might be tempted to return, especially with the support of the squad. Rennie, the ex-Chiefs boss, is currently with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers, while Schmidt, eager to spend time with his family, could be enticed by the All Blacks' head coach role. Securing Schmidt's services might require some compensation, but NZ Rugby might just have to take drastic measures.
Outside Bets: Vern Cotter and Rob Penney - Local Talent
Looking closer to home, Vern Cotter is a name that cannot be ignored. He understands the local rugby landscape and has international experience with Scotland and Fiji. Cotter has proven his pedigree, turning an underperforming Blues team into champions in just one season. His close relationship with many players in the All Blacks squad is an added advantage.
Rob Penney, Robertson's successor at the Crusaders, is another local talent. Despite a turbulent first season, he bounced back strongly, reclaiming the Super Rugby title. While his international CV might not match Cotter's, Penney has coached around the world, leading teams in Japan, Australia, and Ireland.
Wild Cards: O'Gara, McMillan, Gibbes, and Gatland - The Unexpected Candidates
Turning to the wild cards, we find some unexpected names. Ronan O'Gara, Robertson's former assistant, was highly successful during his time with the Crusaders. However, being a non-New Zealander might work against him, as the All Blacks have traditionally stuck with native coaches. Additionally, his recent struggles with La Rochelle could be a concern.
Clayton McMillan, another former Chiefs coach, has only recently joined Munster. Like Schmidt, securing his return might require compensation. Jono Gibbes, McMillan's replacement at the Chiefs, has an underrated CV with vast experience abroad. His success with La Rochelle laid the foundation for O'Gara, and he also served as the New Zealand U20s head coach.
And then there's Warren Gatland, an experienced coach who is currently not employed full-time. While his international credentials are impressive, his strained relationship with the New Zealand media and his return to Wales might be hurdles to overcome.
Surely Not: Brown, Hansen, and Umaga - The Long Shots
While we can't completely rule anyone out, some candidates seem less likely. Tony Brown, the current Springboks assistant coach, has been approached by NZ Rugby in the past but has remained loyal to Jamie Joseph. Sir Steve Hansen, the wildly successful former head coach, is now with Toyota Verblitz in Japan, but his age and the team's recent struggles might be factors against him.
Tana Umaga, the head coach of Moana Pasifika, is another long shot. While he would command respect from the squad, his CV might not be sufficient. Perhaps an assistant role could be more suitable.
So, who do you think should be the next All Blacks boss? Share your thoughts in the comments! Will NZ Rugby go with a safe choice or take a risk on an unexpected candidate? The debate is open!
