The rugby landscape was rocked by the unexpected dismissal of Scott Robertson from the All Blacks, triggering a scramble for his expertise. With the rugby world's most celebrated coach now on the market, eyes are turning toward potential suitors, with Harlequins emerging as a prime candidate. The London-based club, plagued by underwhelming performances and sitting uncomfortably at eighth in the Premiership, is in desperate need of a turnaround. But will Robertson's Midas touch work in the gritty world of English rugby?
Harlequins, once powerhouse champions, have struggled to find form under Jason Gilmore, sparking outcry among fans and speculation about potential replacements. Robertson, celebrated for his phenomenal success with the Crusaders — a legacy of 98 wins in 117 matches — appears to be a fitting choice. His strategic acumen and dynamic style could potentially breathe new life into the faltering squad.
"Quins seems like an obvious one, but it won’t work. I’m telling you now, it won’t work,"
voiced Ben Youngs, former England scrum-half, on the For The Love Of Rugby podcast. Youngs expressed skepticism about Robertson's ability to adapt to the Premiership's unique challenges. Despite his impressive track record in Super Rugby, the Premiership's competitive nature and the unfamiliar territory of the Investec Champions Cup present significant hurdles.
"He’s never coached in the Prem. He doesn’t understand the league. He doesn’t know the Investec Champions Cup,"
Youngs added, highlighting the steep learning curve awaiting Robertson should he join Harlequins. The history of New Zealand coaches struggling in European club rugby adds weight to Youngs' doubts.
Yet, the allure of a coach of Robertson's caliber could prove too tempting for Harlequins to ignore. His potential appointment, while seen as a gamble by some, might be the spark needed for a revival. Whether this move will become a masterstroke or a misstep remains a hotly debated topic. Youngs concluded with a wary foresight, "people will say that’s the right fit. It isn’t, and it won’t work, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they appointed him."
The rugby community will be watching closely, waiting to see if Harlequins will roll the dice on Scott Robertson, hoping to reclaim their former glory or if the skepticism surrounding such a bold move will hold true.
2,100 posts
The rugby landscape was rocked by the unexpected dismissal of Scott Robertson from the All Blacks, triggering a scramble for his expertise. With the rugby world's most celebrated coach now on the market, eyes are turning toward potential suitors, with Harlequins emerging as a prime candidate. The London-based club, plagued by underwhelming performances and sitting uncomfortably at eighth in the Premiership, is in desperate need of a turnaround. But will Robertson's Midas touch work in the gritty world of English rugby?
Harlequins, once powerhouse champions, have struggled to find form under Jason Gilmore, sparking outcry among fans and speculation about potential replacements. Robertson, celebrated for his phenomenal success with the Crusaders — a legacy of 98 wins in 117 matches — appears to be a fitting choice. His strategic acumen and dynamic style could potentially breathe new life into the faltering squad.
"Quins seems like an obvious one, but it won’t work. I’m telling you now, it won’t work,"
voiced Ben Youngs, former England scrum-half, on the For The Love Of Rugby podcast. Youngs expressed skepticism about Robertson's ability to adapt to the Premiership's unique challenges. Despite his impressive track record in Super Rugby, the Premiership's competitive nature and the unfamiliar territory of the Investec Champions Cup present significant hurdles.
"He’s never coached in the Prem. He doesn’t understand the league. He doesn’t know the Investec Champions Cup,"
Youngs added, highlighting the steep learning curve awaiting Robertson should he join Harlequins. The history of New Zealand coaches struggling in European club rugby adds weight to Youngs' doubts.
Yet, the allure of a coach of Robertson's caliber could prove too tempting for Harlequins to ignore. His potential appointment, while seen as a gamble by some, might be the spark needed for a revival. Whether this move will become a masterstroke or a misstep remains a hotly debated topic. Youngs concluded with a wary foresight, "people will say that’s the right fit. It isn’t, and it won’t work, but it wouldn’t surprise me if they appointed him."
The rugby community will be watching closely, waiting to see if Harlequins will roll the dice on Scott Robertson, hoping to reclaim their former glory or if the skepticism surrounding such a bold move will hold true.