In a dramatic twist in the world of rugby, Dave Rennie has been named the new head coach of the All Blacks, taking over from the ousted Scott Robertson. This decision came after a tight contest with Jamie Joseph, who will continue with the Highlanders. Rugby legend Sir John Kirwan weighed in, suggesting that external influences, particularly from the Springboks, played a pivotal role in the final decision.
Rennie, previously at the helm of the Wallabies, edged out Joseph in what Kirwan described as a result of his vast experience and resilience in high-pressure roles. "I’m a big Jamie Joseph fan and friend, and I think probably what pipped it at the end was Dave’s experience," Kirwan revealed on the Rivals podcast. His endorsement of Rennie is significant, considering his legendary status in New Zealand rugby.
"I will probably blame South Africa because I think without Browny involved; a lot of people saw Jamie and Browny as a coaching pair, and a very strong one."
The non-release of Tony Brown by Rassie Erasmus, which would have seen him partner with Joseph, apparently tipped the scales in Rennie’s favor. Kirwan speculated on the potential benefits had Joseph been brought in as an assistant, suggesting a strategic succession could have been advantageous for New Zealand Rugby. "It just depends, they’re both head coaches," Kirwan added, reflecting on the complexities of such high-stakes coaching appointments.
Rennie’s tenure will be crucial as he aims to revitalize the All Blacks and mount a serious challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. The team, previously ranked second globally under Robertson, had faced criticism for lackluster performances. Kirwan is optimistic about Rennie's potential impact, noting his distinctive approach to the game.
"He will want hard players that are really on the edge, he will bring a bit of edge, so I think he’s got that nice balance."
Rennie’s philosophy of a robust, heads-up style of play aligns with traditional New Zealand values, which prioritize intense, forward-dominated rugby over trend-following strategies. Kirwan’s approval highlights a national desire for a game that resonates deeply with the Kiwi identity, moving away from less favored tactics like excessive kicking.
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In a dramatic twist in the world of rugby, Dave Rennie has been named the new head coach of the All Blacks, taking over from the ousted Scott Robertson. This decision came after a tight contest with Jamie Joseph, who will continue with the Highlanders. Rugby legend Sir John Kirwan weighed in, suggesting that external influences, particularly from the Springboks, played a pivotal role in the final decision.
Rennie, previously at the helm of the Wallabies, edged out Joseph in what Kirwan described as a result of his vast experience and resilience in high-pressure roles. "I’m a big Jamie Joseph fan and friend, and I think probably what pipped it at the end was Dave’s experience," Kirwan revealed on the Rivals podcast. His endorsement of Rennie is significant, considering his legendary status in New Zealand rugby.
"I will probably blame South Africa because I think without Browny involved; a lot of people saw Jamie and Browny as a coaching pair, and a very strong one."
The non-release of Tony Brown by Rassie Erasmus, which would have seen him partner with Joseph, apparently tipped the scales in Rennie’s favor. Kirwan speculated on the potential benefits had Joseph been brought in as an assistant, suggesting a strategic succession could have been advantageous for New Zealand Rugby. "It just depends, they’re both head coaches," Kirwan added, reflecting on the complexities of such high-stakes coaching appointments.
Rennie’s tenure will be crucial as he aims to revitalize the All Blacks and mount a serious challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. The team, previously ranked second globally under Robertson, had faced criticism for lackluster performances. Kirwan is optimistic about Rennie's potential impact, noting his distinctive approach to the game.
"He will want hard players that are really on the edge, he will bring a bit of edge, so I think he’s got that nice balance."
Rennie’s philosophy of a robust, heads-up style of play aligns with traditional New Zealand values, which prioritize intense, forward-dominated rugby over trend-following strategies. Kirwan’s approval highlights a national desire for a game that resonates deeply with the Kiwi identity, moving away from less favored tactics like excessive kicking.