Dave Rennie Era Begins for All Blacks with Coaching Staff Questions
The appointment of Dave Rennie as the modern All Blacks head coach has triggered a significant overhaul of the backroom team, leaving several key questions about the composition of his coaching staff. While Rennie aims to bring in personnel he trusts, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is reportedly keen on retaining existing assistants to avoid further costly payouts following Scott Robertson’s departure.
Rennie’s Coaching Preferences
Rennie’s preference for a fresh start with his own coaching team is a driving force behind the changes. He has identified several targets, including Neil Barnes, his former colleague at the Chiefs and Italy, as a potential lead assistant responsible for the forward pack and lineout. This could lead to a reshaped role for current All Blacks assistant Jason Ryan, potentially focusing more on the scrum.
Potential Staff Additions
Phil Healey is expected to replace Nic Gill as the strength and conditioning coach, having previously worked with Rennie at the Chiefs, Glasgow Warriors, and Kobelco Kobe Steelers. Tana Umaga is emerging as the preferred candidate to take over from Tamati Ellison as defence coach, a role he previously held with the Blues.
Umaga’s Potential Impact
Recruiting Umaga could be a strategic move for Rennie, given Umaga’s extensive Super Rugby experience and recent success with Moana Pasifika. His leadership of Moana Pasifika, which included victories over the Crusaders, Blues, Hurricanes, and Highlanders, demonstrates his coaching capabilities. Umaga’s appointment would also be significant symbolically, as he would be the first Pasifika All Blacks captain to join the coaching staff alongside the first All Blacks head coach of Pasifika descent, potentially fostering a cultural reset within the team.
The Hansen and Ryan Situation
The future of existing assistants Scott Hansen and Jason Ryan remains uncertain. NZR is reportedly pushing for Rennie to strongly consider retaining Hansen, who, along with Ryan, is under contract for four years. However, Rennie retaining Hansen could compromise his vision for a clean slate. Hansen’s influential role under Robertson and the financial implications of moving him on are key considerations.
Attack Coach Uncertainty
Whether Rennie will collaborate with former Scotland halfback Mike Blair or retain current All Blacks attack coach Scott Hansen remains a key unknown. Differing views between NZR and Rennie on the attack coach position suggest a potential point of contention.
Cultural Shift and Inclusivity
The potential inclusion of Umaga aligns with a broader effort to foster a more inclusive environment within the All Blacks, recognizing the increasing representation of Pasifika athletes in New Zealand rugby. Incorporating customs and building genuine connections are seen as crucial for evoking purpose and motivation from players from all backgrounds.