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The All Blacks coaching circus is over, with Scott Robertson appointed to lead New Zealand from 2024 after Ian Foster takes the side to this year’s World Cup.
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) announced Robertson’s appointment on Tuesday, signing up the Crusaders coach to a four-year deal beginning in 2024.
“To represent your country, as a coach or player, is the ultimate honour in sport and it’s humbling to be given that opportunity. I can’t wait,” Robertson said.
The appointment ahead of the World Cup in France, which begins in September, breaks with convention.
NZR felt pressured to move on a successor for Foster after poor results in 2022, including a lost home series against Ireland.
Foster spoke out against the decision, saying if he lifted the World Cup this year he deserved the chance to “have another crack”, and that a fresh coaching appointment would undermine his tilt.
Scott Robertson played 23 Tests in the black jersey but has found his calling as a coach.Credit:Getty
“Why give a sucker a chance. There is no need to do that,” he said last month. “For me it is quite simple, let us prepare 100 per cent for this World Cup.”
In moving early, NZR feel they have locked down the best possible successor to Foster.