The race to become the next All Blacks head coach is heating up, with Jamie Joseph and Dave Rennie emerging as the final contenders. New Zealand Rugby (NZ Rugby) is on the brink of deciding who will take the reins from Scott Robertson, with a decision expected by the second week of March. Both candidates have declined the prospect of forming a 'dream coaching team,' opting instead to pursue the top job solo.
NZ Rugby’s search for a head coach who is a New Zealander with international experience narrowed the field significantly. Notables like Ian Foster and Sir Steve Hansen were in the mix but didn’t make the final cut. Now, it's down to Joseph, the Highlanders head coach, and Rennie, who currently leads the Kobelco Kobe Steelers.
The selection process involved a five-person panel, including NZ Rugby board chair David Kirk and former All Blacks Keven Mealamu and Dane Coles. This committee is tasked with presenting their preferred choice to the board after comprehensive evaluations, including overseas visits to both candidates. Joseph, speaking ahead of a crucial game, kept his cards close to his chest. "No word," Joseph stated. "I’m really focused on this week’s game against the Chiefs. It’s a tough, tough game for us, and all my focus is really on the Highlanders."
"No word,"
On the other hand, the Highlanders have expressed their desire for Joseph to complete the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season should he be appointed, a sentiment likely echoed by Kobe for Rennie. The latter's team has had a strong start to their season, positioning them as contenders in the Japan Rugby League One.
The decision-making process will culminate with both Joseph and Rennie traveling to New Zealand for in-person interviews where they will present their visions for the future of the All Blacks. This crucial meeting is scheduled for the first week in March.
Meanwhile, the rugby world watches and waits as NZ Rugby prepares to make a decision that could shape the future of the iconic All Blacks team. Whoever gets the nod will inherit a role fraught with expectations and the eyes of a nation eager for continued success on the international stage.
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The race to become the next All Blacks head coach is heating up, with Jamie Joseph and Dave Rennie emerging as the final contenders. New Zealand Rugby (NZ Rugby) is on the brink of deciding who will take the reins from Scott Robertson, with a decision expected by the second week of March. Both candidates have declined the prospect of forming a 'dream coaching team,' opting instead to pursue the top job solo.
NZ Rugby’s search for a head coach who is a New Zealander with international experience narrowed the field significantly. Notables like Ian Foster and Sir Steve Hansen were in the mix but didn’t make the final cut. Now, it's down to Joseph, the Highlanders head coach, and Rennie, who currently leads the Kobelco Kobe Steelers.
The selection process involved a five-person panel, including NZ Rugby board chair David Kirk and former All Blacks Keven Mealamu and Dane Coles. This committee is tasked with presenting their preferred choice to the board after comprehensive evaluations, including overseas visits to both candidates. Joseph, speaking ahead of a crucial game, kept his cards close to his chest. "No word," Joseph stated. "I’m really focused on this week’s game against the Chiefs. It’s a tough, tough game for us, and all my focus is really on the Highlanders."
"No word,"
On the other hand, the Highlanders have expressed their desire for Joseph to complete the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season should he be appointed, a sentiment likely echoed by Kobe for Rennie. The latter's team has had a strong start to their season, positioning them as contenders in the Japan Rugby League One.
The decision-making process will culminate with both Joseph and Rennie traveling to New Zealand for in-person interviews where they will present their visions for the future of the All Blacks. This crucial meeting is scheduled for the first week in March.
Meanwhile, the rugby world watches and waits as NZ Rugby prepares to make a decision that could shape the future of the iconic All Blacks team. Whoever gets the nod will inherit a role fraught with expectations and the eyes of a nation eager for continued success on the international stage.