New Zealand Rugby confirms All Black coaching appointment process

New Zealand Rugby have today announced their process for appointing the new head coach of the All Blacks, after Scott Robertson departed his role on Thursday, January 15.

NZR Chair David Kirk, Don Tricker, and Keven Mealamu, who conducted the end-of-year review that resulted in Robertson leaving his role, will all be involved in the new process alongside interim CEO Steve Lancaster and a recently retired All Black.

The statement explains that the organisation invites coaches from New Zealand with international experience to apply, before the shortlist and interview process begins.

“NZR will invite New Zealand coaches with international head coaching experience to apply. The appointment panel will then shortlist and interview candidates.”

NZR have confirmed that the recently retired All Black who will be on the panel is yet to be decided, and will be announced in due course.

Lancaster, who has stepped in as interim CEO as the organisation searches for a new leader, said in an NZR statement that they are giving the process the care it deserves.

“The All Blacks Head Coach is an incredibly important appointment. We’ve started the process and are giving it the care and urgency it deserves to set the team up for success.

“We’ll provide further updates as soon as we can.”

 

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Today’s announcement comes hours after Wallabies head coach and former All Blacks assistant Joe Schmidt ruled himself out of the race for the vacant role, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

Sources have indicated that despite being sounded out by NZR for the role, Schmidt will remain in his contract with Rugby Australia, “and will not be switching loyalties mid-[World Cup] cycle”.