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Following an internal review of the All Blacks' 2025 season in which they failed to secure a Grand Slam, New Zealand rugby is again hitting the panic button with the national coaching setup thrown into turmoil.
Reports of player unrest have surfaced, with senior leaders within the squad expressing concerns regarding the team culture and the direction the side is heading under Scott Robertson. The heat has been on Robertson since he took over from Ian Foster. His success with the Crusaders was undeniable, leading many in the New Zealand rugby landscape to push for his early appointment, which was a move that ruffled feathers at the time.
Robertson was expected to usher the All Blacks into an exciting new era by blending the "Crusaders DNA" with his signature flair. However, since stepping into the role, Robertson has taken a conservative approach, leading many to question both his tactical rigidity and his recent selections.
The first signs of a disconnect appeared with the departure of key coaching appointments hand-picked by Robertson himself. First was the shock exit of Leon MacDonald, the former Blues head coach and Robertson’s primary attack specialist.
MacDonald departed after only five Tests. Sources cited a "clash of philosophy," with the two coaches holding differing perspectives on how to translate Super Rugby to the Test arena. The exodus continued with the resignation of assistant coach Jason Holland, who stepped down at the conclusion of the 2025 season. Holland’s exit leaves Robertson without two of his original appointments within the first two years of his contract.
Speculation suggests that Robertson’s close ties with Scott Hansen have created an insular environment where alternative perspectives aren’t given serious consideration.
The review of the 2025 Northern Tour exposed deep frustrations among senior players over a lack of strategic clarity and a "closed-door" environment. This week, NZ Herald journalist Liam Napier suggested there is widespread dissatisfaction among the squad, including from Ardie Savea, a talismanic figure and former World Player of the Year. Savea, who has served as a vocal leader during Scott Barrett’s injury absences, is rumored to be "seriously unhappy." The report suggests he may even be exploring long-term playing options in Europe or Japan rather than returning to the All Blacks setup.
During the 2025 campaign, "tactical confusion" on the field was mirrored by concerning off-field revelations. Robertson admitted that assistant Scott Hansen was effectively running the team's day-to-day operations, which was a revelation that unsettled the player group.
Rumors also persist that a senior Blues player turned down an invitation to join the squad for the final Test of 2025. The All Blacks could now face a potential player revolt that may force New Zealand Rugby’s hand if results do not improve immediately.
With New Zealand Rugby pulling the trigger on the Robertson era, there is no shortage of candidates. The All Blacks head coach gig can however be a poisoned chalice, and you are expected to perform and get results straight away or come under intense scrutiny. The All Blacks legacy weighs heavy on players, coaches and administrators alike. Who would be ready to take up the mantle of one of the best positions in the rugby world?
Jamie Joseph
The most immediate and logical successor is Jamie Joseph. Having competed against Robertson for the role in 2023, Joseph has recently spent time coaching the Highlanders and the All Blacks XV. He also boasts international success with Japan and a Super Rugby title. Most importantly, he offers structural discipline and a no-nonsense approach. He would be a "safe pair of hands" to steady the ship.
Tony Brown
Tony Brown is widely regarded as the most innovative attacking mind in world rugby at the moment. His success as the Springboks' attack coach has led to growing calls from New Zealand fans to bring him home. Known for his "creative chaos" philosophy, Brown prioritises empowering players to execute high-speed systems over rigid "high-performance" structures. The main roadblock is his current contract with South African Rugby, where he is highly valued for transforming the Boks into the most lethal attacking unit of the 2025 Rugby Championship.
Pat Lam
The Bristol Bears head coach should be considered a genuine candidate. Pat Lam’s coaching style was honed in the New Zealand domestic system and evolved through years in the Northern Hemisphere. He is known for empowering players with decision-making responsibility and forming deep human connections. This is important given the Maori and Pasifika heritage of the bulk of the squad. His recent success in the Premiership has bolstered the argument that he understands how to dismantle modern, suffocating defensive systems.
Ronan O’Gara
While a wild card pick, Ronan O’Gara has history with New Zealand rugby. Although an overseas head coach would be a historic first for the All Blacks, O’Gara’s tactical nous and his pedigree as an assistant under Robertson at the Crusaders suggest he understands the New Zealand landscape better than most outsiders. Currently navigating a transition period with La Rochelle, O'Gara has been open about his desire to move into the Test arena. His arrival could potentially bridge the gap between traditional All Blacks stlye and European test rugby.