The All Blacks only fourth in the ranking of world rugby nations, it is a form of national drama in New Zealand. After the recent defeats of Ian Forster’s players on home soil and one year before the World Cup in France, the New Zealand Rugby Federation, under strong pressure from the media and public opinion, had to react. . She did so in the form of a press release in which New Zealand Rugby (NZR) announced the departures of John Plumtree and Brad Mooar, respectively in charge of defense and attack for the Blacks, as well as the arrival of Jason Ryan.
“Strong and in-depth conversations”
While in the land of the “long white cloud” there was speculation about the departure of head coach Ian Foster and his replacement by former Ireland and Clermont coach Joe Schmidt, it was ultimately two of his assistants who are paying for the poor results of recent weeks. The All Blacks have indeed lost their series of tests at home against the Irish, a first in the history between these two nations. They lost in the last two meetings (23-12 and 32-22). Their victory in the first of three tests (42-19) does nothing to alleviate the anger that is brewing in the country.
The departures of John Plumtree and Brad Mooar were recorded after “vigorous and in-depth conversations” on ways to improve performance, NZR said in a statement. “I really feel sorry for two men who are great rugby coaches and have made a huge contribution to the All Blacks”commented the coach of the team Ian Foster.
Jason Ryan’s ‘continuous growth’
It is therefore Jason Ryan who will be in charge of putting the Blacks back on the right path of attack, historically their great strength. He had been the sector coach for the Canterbury Crusaders for six years, during which time they won six Super Rugby titles. He was also Fiji’s forwards coach.
“Jason has a proven track record and great experience at international level”noted Mr. Foster. “Last year we saw firsthand the impact he had on Fiji’s forwards, alongside his continued growth as the Crusaders’ attacking coach.”he continued.
Joe Schmidt has also taken on an analysis role with the All Blacks and will work with Ian Foster on overall strategy and attack. He had been recalled by Forsterthen affected by the Covid, to come and lend a hand before the first test against Ireland.
Big pressure before the Rugby Championship
Other changes could follow, especially in the team itself. Thus, the New Zealand media have reported on a possible replacement of Sam Cane by Sam Whitelock as team captain. But two days ago Forster confirmed Cane as captain when he announced the squad for the Rugby Championship which begins soon.
New Zealand will start the competition under great pressure with two meetings at the soil of world champions South Africa on August 6 and 13, before welcoming Argentina to Christchurch on August 27, then to Hamilton at the weekend. next. They will then face Australia in Melbourne on Thursday September 15 before receiving them in Auckland for their last match on September 24.
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