New Zealand Rugby has initiated a critical search for a new head coach for the All Blacks after terminating Scott Robertson's contract with just twenty months remaining until the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Robertson's Abrupt Departure
Scott Robertson's tenure has ended after two turbulent years in charge. The former Crusaders supremo, who took the role in 2024, was unable to replicate his phenomenal Super Rugby success at international level. His departure follows a damning end-of-year review by New Zealand Rugby (NZR).
The decision comes after a period of significant underperformance. The All Blacks finished second in the last two Rugby Championship tournaments. The low point was a record 43-10 defeat to South Africa in Wellington last September, their heaviest ever loss to the Springboks. Persistent rumours of player discontent further undermined Robertson's position.
Leading Contenders for the Role
The hunt for a successor is now underway, with several high-profile names in the frame to lead one of world sport's most prestigious teams.
Jamie Joseph is currently considered the frontrunner. The former All Blacks flanker, capped twenty times, recently led the All Blacks XV on their November tour. He boasts vast experience, having coached Japan to a historic World Cup quarter-final on home soil in 2019 before returning to New Zealand to take charge of the Highlanders in 2024. His potential appointment could trigger a move for his long-time coaching ally, attack specialist Tony Brown, though Brown is currently under contract with world champions South Africa.
Joe Schmidt is another highly respected figure in the conversation. The New Zealander is departing his role as Wallabies head coach after a mixed 2025. Despite his side running out of steam late in the year, he secured notable wins over the British and Irish Lions and South Africa in Johannesburg. Schmidt, who enjoyed great success with Ireland between 2013 and 2019, has previously acted as a senior figure to calm tensions within the All Blacks set-up in 2022. At 60, his desire for the immense pressure of the top job is unclear, having cited family time as a reason for leaving Australia.
Wayne Smith, 'The Professor', is a revered coaching intellect. An assistant during the 2011 and 2015 World Cup wins, he performed a miracle turnaround with the Black Ferns to win the 2022 Women's World Cup. At 68, a full-time head coach role may be unlikely, but NZR will be keen to involve his expertise in some capacity.
The Wider Field and Robertson's Future
Other names mentioned include former Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd, who transformed Northampton Saints, and Clayton McMillan of Munster. Warren Gatland is available but may be seen as a retrograde step. John Mitchell, who coached the All Blacks from 2001 to 2003, is under contract with England's Red Roses until June.
As for Robertson, he will not be short of offers. His record of seven consecutive Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders proves his elite coaching pedigree. Several Gallagher Premiership clubs, including Newcastle Red Bulls, Gloucester, and Harlequins, are reportedly considering staff changes and could be potential destinations for the 51-year-old.
The coming weeks will be crucial for NZR as they seek a leader capable of restoring the All Blacks to the summit of world rugby with the clock ticking towards the 2027 global tournament.
