Dave Rennie's recent appointment as the All Blacks head coach has been met with applause from rugby circles, notably from former New Zealand number eight, Murray Mexted. Amidst the turbulence following Scott Robertson's dismissal after a critical review of the 2025 season by New Zealand Rugby, Rennie's signing brings a much-needed steadiness to the helm.
Rennie, known for his tenure with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan and his significant coaching stints across various teams including the Chiefs and the Wallabies, will commence his role with the All Blacks post his obligations in Japan, concluding in June. Mexted, a former teammate and an admirer of Rennie's extensive coaching journey, praises the new coach's unique approach to leadership.
"Well, Dave Rennie’s done the yards. He’s a disciple of the game without a doubt,"
Mexted shared on the DSPN podcast with Martin Devlin. He underscored Rennie's ascent through the rugby ranks, from age-grade levels to top-tier coaching positions. His tenure at the International Rugby Academy of New Zealand, founded by Mexted, is particularly notable. Here, Rennie honed his skills, absorbing wisdom from some of the finest in the game.
Mexted highlighted the clarity Rennie brings to his role—a trait that sets him apart. Rennie is known for his concise communication, ensuring his messages are clear and impactful, a method that has earned him respect and attention from his players over the years.
"And Dave Rennie doesn’t talk too much. He’s the opposite. Every word he says is absolutely specific,"
explained Mexted. This economy of words helps keep the team engaged and focused, a crucial skill in high-stakes environments. Rennie's natural inclination towards this style seems to resonate well with his teams, making his coaching not just effective but also respected.
As Rennie prepares to lead the All Blacks, his journey from playing days in Wellington to global coaching experiences has equipped him with a profound understanding of the game. His appointment is seen not just as a fill-in following a dismissal but as a strategic move by New Zealand Rugby to instill a visionary and effective leadership at a time when it is most needed. With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on Rennie to steer the All Blacks to success.
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Dave Rennie's recent appointment as the All Blacks head coach has been met with applause from rugby circles, notably from former New Zealand number eight, Murray Mexted. Amidst the turbulence following Scott Robertson's dismissal after a critical review of the 2025 season by New Zealand Rugby, Rennie's signing brings a much-needed steadiness to the helm.
Rennie, known for his tenure with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan and his significant coaching stints across various teams including the Chiefs and the Wallabies, will commence his role with the All Blacks post his obligations in Japan, concluding in June. Mexted, a former teammate and an admirer of Rennie's extensive coaching journey, praises the new coach's unique approach to leadership.
"Well, Dave Rennie’s done the yards. He’s a disciple of the game without a doubt,"
Mexted shared on the DSPN podcast with Martin Devlin. He underscored Rennie's ascent through the rugby ranks, from age-grade levels to top-tier coaching positions. His tenure at the International Rugby Academy of New Zealand, founded by Mexted, is particularly notable. Here, Rennie honed his skills, absorbing wisdom from some of the finest in the game.
Mexted highlighted the clarity Rennie brings to his role—a trait that sets him apart. Rennie is known for his concise communication, ensuring his messages are clear and impactful, a method that has earned him respect and attention from his players over the years.
"And Dave Rennie doesn’t talk too much. He’s the opposite. Every word he says is absolutely specific,"
explained Mexted. This economy of words helps keep the team engaged and focused, a crucial skill in high-stakes environments. Rennie's natural inclination towards this style seems to resonate well with his teams, making his coaching not just effective but also respected.
As Rennie prepares to lead the All Blacks, his journey from playing days in Wellington to global coaching experiences has equipped him with a profound understanding of the game. His appointment is seen not just as a fill-in following a dismissal but as a strategic move by New Zealand Rugby to instill a visionary and effective leadership at a time when it is most needed. With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on Rennie to steer the All Blacks to success.