As New Zealand Rugby grapples with a series of high-profile vacancies and ongoing challenges, former All Blacks captain Kieran Read has expressed his concern and readiness to assist the national governing body if called upon. Despite the recent appointment of Dave Rennie as head coach, unresolved issues persist, casting a shadow over the organization's stability.
Kieran Read's connection to the All Blacks is profound, filled with memories and achievements that resonate deeply with the iconic black jersey. Speaking on the Between Two Beers podcast, Read shared his discomfort at witnessing the current state of NZ Rugby. "New Zealand Rugby is interesting, it’s hard to watch sometimes as a former All Black and see it not go well, purely because of what you’ve given to the All Black jersey," Read lamented.
"You want the whole organisation to be reflecting what you feel as players. It’s hard when you see a CEO, CFO, high performance manager, everyone not there, and you’re going, 'well, that’s not really reflecting that well enough'."
While Read has no immediate plans to take up a formal role within the organization, his willingness to lend a hand remains evident. "I’ve talked to a few of the older fellas and we care about the team so we’d give anything in some ways to help them be the best, but you also know your place and that is removed," he explained. "You’d definitely offer if they’d ask for help."
Post-retirement, Read has not strayed far from rugby. His involvement with the Crusaders, particularly with the emerging leaders group, underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent. "I love sport and I love rugby, and I’m so grateful for what they’ve given me," Read said, reflecting on his ongoing connection to the game.
His efforts are part of a broader initiative to cultivate leadership within New Zealand's rugby ranks, a move that he believes is crucial for the sport's future. "Not many rugby teams in New Zealand are investing in the potential of their leaders, that next generation of leaders, and I think that’s an amazing thing that they’re doing," he noted.
The state of New Zealand Rugby remains a concern for many, but with former players like Read willing to contribute their experience and insight, there is hope that the organization can regain its footing and continue its legacy of excellence in the world of rugby.
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As New Zealand Rugby grapples with a series of high-profile vacancies and ongoing challenges, former All Blacks captain Kieran Read has expressed his concern and readiness to assist the national governing body if called upon. Despite the recent appointment of Dave Rennie as head coach, unresolved issues persist, casting a shadow over the organization's stability.
Kieran Read's connection to the All Blacks is profound, filled with memories and achievements that resonate deeply with the iconic black jersey. Speaking on the Between Two Beers podcast, Read shared his discomfort at witnessing the current state of NZ Rugby. "New Zealand Rugby is interesting, it’s hard to watch sometimes as a former All Black and see it not go well, purely because of what you’ve given to the All Black jersey," Read lamented.
"You want the whole organisation to be reflecting what you feel as players. It’s hard when you see a CEO, CFO, high performance manager, everyone not there, and you’re going, 'well, that’s not really reflecting that well enough'."
While Read has no immediate plans to take up a formal role within the organization, his willingness to lend a hand remains evident. "I’ve talked to a few of the older fellas and we care about the team so we’d give anything in some ways to help them be the best, but you also know your place and that is removed," he explained. "You’d definitely offer if they’d ask for help."
Post-retirement, Read has not strayed far from rugby. His involvement with the Crusaders, particularly with the emerging leaders group, underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent. "I love sport and I love rugby, and I’m so grateful for what they’ve given me," Read said, reflecting on his ongoing connection to the game.
His efforts are part of a broader initiative to cultivate leadership within New Zealand's rugby ranks, a move that he believes is crucial for the sport's future. "Not many rugby teams in New Zealand are investing in the potential of their leaders, that next generation of leaders, and I think that’s an amazing thing that they’re doing," he noted.
The state of New Zealand Rugby remains a concern for many, but with former players like Read willing to contribute their experience and insight, there is hope that the organization can regain its footing and continue its legacy of excellence in the world of rugby.