Black Ferns assistant coach makes ‘tough call’ before World Cup year

New Zealand assistant coach Mike Delany has made the “tough call” to resign less than a year out from the Rugby World Cup. The former All Blacks first five-eighth, who oversaw the Black Ferns’ attack, leaves behind a vacancy that will need to be filled before the showpiece event.

The Black Ferns started their international season in 2024 with a 19-22 loss to Canada at Christchurch’s Apollo Projects Stadium. While they bounced back with wins over the USA and Australia, the New Zealanders fell short of the Pacific Four Series crown.

In Tests against the Wallaroos at North Harbour Stadium and Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane, the Black Ferns scored 129 points and only conceded 19. But their final four Tests of the year were tough, starting with a 12-point loss to world no. 1 England after heading north.

New Zealand were stunned by Ireland and lost to England for a second time in 2024 during WXV 1, but ended that campaign with a big win over France. Winger Katelyn Vahaakolo was the star of the show as the women in black left fans at BC Place Stadium in awe with a 39-14 triumph.

But with the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England rapidly approaching, assistant coach Delany believed it was best for himself and the team to step away. New Zealand Rugby confirmed the coaching shakeup in a press release on Friday.

“I’m incredibly proud to have played a part in the Black Ferns legacy and put in place some building blocks I believe will benefit the team in 2025 and beyond,” Delany said in a statement.

“The 2024 season was challenging for the group with mixed performances on the field, but also for myself personally juggling family.

“A World Rugby year needs total commitment to give the team the best chance to defend their title, with that in mind, I’ve made a pretty tough call to step aside.”

Director of Rugby Allan Bunting has revealed that Delany’s replacement will be confirmed shortly. But firstly, Bunting made sure to acknowledge Delany and what the rugby attack guru was able to contribute to the Black Ferns.

“Mike’s a quality coach and person and the passion and care he’s brought to the environment over the past two seasons has been significant,” Black Ferns Director of Rugby Allan Bunting explained.

“He has a breadth of knowledge and his honesty and input to the group will be valuable as we look toward 2025.

“With Mike moving on, we’ll look at our structure and how we can ensure we’re set up for success in 2025.”

The Black Ferns will begin their Rugby World Cup defence against Spain at York Community Stadium on August 24. They’ll also take on Japan at Sandy Park in Exeter, before taking on Ireland at Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium on September 7.

New Zealand won the last Women’s Rugby World Cup with an unforgettable win over England at Auckland’s Eden Park, but a tough task awaits them next year. They’re currently ranked third on the women’s rankings behind England and Canada.