The All Blacks are on the verge of naming their new head coach, and the rugby world is buzzing with anticipation. But here's where it gets controversial: the two leading candidates, Dave Rennie and Jamie Joseph, have starkly different views on whether to retain Scott Robertson’s former assistants. This divide could be the deciding factor in one of the most high-stakes coaching appointments in recent memory.
New Zealand Rugby is in the final stages of its exhaustive search for Robertson’s successor, following his unexpected departure earlier this year. The process has been meticulous, with interim CEO Steve Lancaster and former All Black Dane Coles personally observing the candidates in their day-to-day roles. Now, with in-person interviews wrapping up, the announcement could come as early as this Thursday, according to several New Zealand publications.
And this is the part most people miss: while both Rennie and Joseph meet the stringent criteria—including international head coaching experience—their stances on Robertson’s legacy coaching team couldn’t be more different. Joseph appears more open to keeping assistants like Jason Ryan, Tamati Ellison, and Scott Hansen, whereas Rennie seems hesitant to work with them. This discrepancy has sparked debate: will Joseph’s willingness to embrace continuity give him the edge, or will Rennie’s fresh approach be seen as a necessary reset?
The trio of assistants isn’t without controversy. Reports suggest Hansen caused friction during Robertson’s tenure, contributing to the departures of Leon MacDonald and Jason Holland. Yet, Ryan is widely regarded as a world-class coach, having transformed the All Blacks’ forward pack into a formidable force during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Ellison, too, brings valuable experience from his time with the Wellington Lions and Crusaders.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: if Rennie lands the role, his current club, the Kobe Steelers, may not be left scrambling. The Japanese side has seasoned coaches like Wayne Smith and Dan McFarland ready to step in. Similarly, Joseph’s potential departure from the Highlanders would likely see New Zealand Rugby insisting he focus solely on the All Blacks.
As the rugby community awaits the decision, one question lingers: Is continuity the key to the All Blacks’ future success, or does a clean slate offer the best path forward? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
