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Despite a 74% winning record, Scott Robertson has been sensationally removed as All Blacks head coach by New Zealand Rugby. His departure follows reports of player unrest and a damning 2025 season review.
New Zealand Rugby chairman David Kirk was quick to put down any talk that there was call to axe Robertson coming from senior players amid speculation that Ardie Savea would leave the All Blacks set if he continued.
“There was definitely no revolt,” Kirk said, addressing media. “The players were very measured and thoughtful in their responses. It’s very unfair to say that Ardie somehow led something, not at all.
“He expressed public opinions. Some of those opinions were not agreed with by other players. Others would have been somewhat aligned with them. All of the players are individuals, make their own decisions, and analyse things in ways that are appropriate for them and the team.
“It’s a real red herring to think of Ardie having been influential in this decision. He absolutely was not. He is contracted to us until the end of 2027. I would definitely expect to see him in a black jersey.”
Robertson leaves the All Blacks with 20 wins from 27 tests during his coaching tenure, a record most most international teams would be content with. The heat has been on Scott Robertson since he stepped into the role, with his coaching style under intense scrutiny from NZRU, pundits and fans. Big losses in under his tenure, including defeats to the Springboks, Argentina and England has seemingly sealed his fate.
The All Blacks will be on the hunt for a new coach as they prepare for a huge year for New Zealand rugby, with the launching of the Greatest Rivallry Tour and the new Nations Championship tournament.