Scott Robertson is to replace Ian Foster as New Zealand head coach after signing a four-year contract that will begin after this autumn’s World Cup.
Foster has presided over a rocky period in All Blacks history and although he avoided the sack during a challenging 2022, New Zealand Rugby announced it was searching for a replacement to start after the global showpiece in France.
Robertson, 48, has beaten Japan boss Jamie Joseph to the role with his rise to the most sought-after coaching post in All Blacks rugby seen as inevitable having guided the Crusaders to six consecutive Super Rugby titles.
“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,” former New Zealand back row Robertson said.
“To represent your country as a coach or player is the ultimate honour in sport and it’s humbling to be given that opportunity. I can’t wait.”
New Zealand have been heavily criticised for recruiting Foster’s replacement in advance of the World Cup, a move that is seen as being detrimental to their chances of winning the tournament for a fourth time.
Robertson was a fringe contender to take over from Eddie Jones when he was sacked by England in December but the Rugby Football Union opted instead for their preferred choice Steve Borthwick.
