16 January 2025 The Conversation: After Scott Robertson, the All Blacks face a deeper question than who coaches next

On The Conversation, Lincoln University Lecturer in Sport Management and Sport Science Dr Hoani Smith discusses Scott Robertson's surprise departure as All Black coach and the resulting opportunity to give greater consideration to the team environment and culture. Particularly through the lens of players' cultural identity and language, and how these support on-field performance.

With Scott Robertson’s departure as All Blacks coach, New Zealand Rugby finds itself at a familiar crossroads.

Yet, while coaching appointments come and go in elite sport, this moment demands bigger questions about how the All Blacks should be led.

The immediate conversation will centre on coaching credentials, win-loss records and tactical philosophy. That’s understandable.

But recent player comments suggest the next coaching era may need to think beyond strategy and selection, and pay closer attention to team environment, culture and connection with others.

One of the most telling signs has come from All Blacks veteran Ardie Savea. While playing for Super Rugby franchise Moana Pasifika in 2025, Savea publicly described that time as the happiest he has been in his rugby career.

The comment landed quietly, but its implications are significant. It raises questions about what players experience inside different elite environments, and why a community-rooted franchise might feel more fulfilling than the national team.

Read the full article to learn how Indigenous and relational perspectives are essential to sustaining sporting excellence at The Conversation here >>

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