New Zealand Rugby has named Scott Robertson as Ian Foster’s successor, with the 48-year-old to take price of the All Blacks after the Rugby World Cup later this 12 months. The Crusaders trainer has signed a four-year contract which can run from the beginning of 2024 and take him via to the top of the 2027 World Cup.
“It’s an honor to be named as the next All Blacks head coach,” Robertson mentioned in a observation. “It’s a job that comes with a huge amount of responsibility, but I’m excited by the opportunity to make a contribution to the legacy of the black jersey. To represent your country, as a coach or player, is the ultimate honor in sport and it’s humbling to be given that opportunity. I can’t wait.”
Robertson has been vying for the role with Japan head coach Jamie Joseph following what RNZ described as a “robust interview process”. His appointment was confirmed at an NZR board meeting on Tuesday morning.
“His coaching record speaks for itself in terms of success,” NZR leader govt, Mark Robinson, mentioned. “But what came through strongly during the interview process was his innovative approach to the game, his passion for his players, and his desire to add to the All Blacks legacy. We firmly believe he is the right person to lead the team in 2024 and beyond.
Robertson lost out to Foster for New Zealand rugby’s top job after Steve Hansen stood down following the 2019 World Cup in Japan. Foster, who will remain in his post for this year’s World Cup, said earlier this month that he would not re-apply for the job, after NZR announced it was commencing a search for a new coach before his contract expired at the conclusion of the tournament. in france.
“We congratulate Scott on his appointment and look forward to working together in 2024, but have also been clear that New Zealand Rugby’s full support this year will be focused on the current All Blacks coaching team as we look towards the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France NZR chair Dame Patsy Reddy said.
Robertson, who played 23 Tests for the All Blacks, has impressed since ending his playing days and moving into coaching. He rose from an assistant position at Canterbury to the head coach role in 2013, and went on to win three Premiership titles between 2013 and 2016. Since 2017, he has overseen six consecutive Super Rugby championships.
“Having significant time to plan for 2024 and beyond is crucial to setting the All Blacks up for success during the next World Cup cycle,” Robertson mentioned. “I’ve a role to do with the Crusaders and that will likely be my major center of attention via to the finishing touch of Super Rugby, however I will be able to now have the ability to paintings with NZR to get some key appointments in my training and control group finalised, so we will be able to hit the bottom working subsequent 12 months.
The All Blacks start their Rugby World Cup marketing campaign on 8 September in opposition to France, earlier than different Pool A video games in opposition to Namibia, Italy and Uruguay.