The winds of change are swirling around the All Blacks camp with head coach Scott Robertson at the helm, proving that a strategic pivot in coaching can redefine a team's trajectory. After a rocky start, Robertson, alongside his coaching trio, has seemingly cracked the code, leading New Zealand to a clean sweep against France and setting the stage for the upcoming Rugby Championship.
Murray Mexted, a stalwart of New Zealand rugby, has shifted from critic to commendator following recent developments. "When Razor Robertson started, every man and his dog was a selector. Now, it's just Jason Ryan, Scott Hansen, and Razor. They've become a very, very savvy group," Mexted explained in a discussion with Martin Devlin on DSPN.
The transformation in team strategy was highlighted by Robertson’s tactical shift of Tupou Vaa’i from lock to blindside flanker, a move that has paid dividends in the Test matches. "They've got it right now," Mexted noted. "They realized they needed some big guys so they’ve moved Vaa’i, who was playing really well [at lock] but was not big enough, to blindside flanker."
"Nobody’s played number six and said: 'I am your man. Pick me, I am the All Blacks number six'. He’s been a success, you would have to say."
Further bolstering the lineup, Robertson introduced a promising new talent, the hard-working 'big Dutchman' Fabian Holland, alongside another sizeable player, Josh Lord, anticipated to make waves. Mexted praised the strategic additions, emphasizing their impact and the necessary fill for the void left by legends like Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock.
The improved synergy among the coaching staff has not gone unnoticed, with better selectorial decisions making a marked difference this year. "They’ve settled down to three selector coaches who obviously get on well together," Mexted added, highlighting the evolution in team management.
Reflecting on the broader implications, Mexted articulated a bold view on the importance of coaching roles. "I think selectors and coaches are more important than the players they pick. These guys have really got to be onto it at the top level."
With the All Blacks now demonstrating a robust start, the true test lies ahead in the Rugby Championship, where the revamped strategies and team dynamics under Scott Robertson’s refined leadership will be put through their paces.