Scott Robertson has spoken openly about his new role as All Blacks head coach, what he hopes to accomplish in his first season in charge, and how he plans to achieve success.
Robertson joins the post after a successful tenure as head coach of the Crusaders, which included seven consecutive Super Rugby titles from 2017 to 2023.
However, international rugby is a different challenge, as he faces a demanding schedule as All Blacks coach.
Tough international schedule in 2024.
The men in black will play 14 internationals in 2024, including a two-Test series in New Zealand against England in July, a difficult Rugby Championship schedule that includes back-to-back Tests against the Springboks in South Africa, and a trip to Europe at the end of the year to face the Red Rose as well as France, Ireland, and Italy.
The 49-year-old is enthused about the task that awaits him and his men in the Test arena.
“We are going to find out right away. We need to add depth to our roster, offer individuals and players opportunities, and establish as much synergy as possible right early,” Robertson said on The Breakdown.
“When I looked at it, I assumed we were going to learn about ourselves and the guys in front of us.
“The most important thing I have to do, or we have to do as a coaching group, is make sure they understand how they’re going to play, and how we’re going to play.”
“What is our identity?” What is our DNA? Then set them up to play clearly, express themselves, and have a great time. I’m really looking forward to improving our game over time, which is critical, and connecting with the broader audience.”
Experience is a crucial part of any team, and the All Blacks lost seasoned campaigners including as Sam Whitelock, Dane Coles, Aaron Smith, and Brodie Retallick after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
All Blacks and Crusaders set to miss England series and Super Rugby Pacific season.
Robertson recognizes that losing experience implies losing leadership, but he believes there is no single leadership style that will help a team achieve success.
“One thing I’ve learned over time is the leadership model’s got to suit the team that is in front of you, there’s no one such model, so you’ve got to mould it,” he said.
“Who will you bring through in critical positions? Who is prepared for the responsibility? Who has played 50 or 60 Tests? Who has matured nicely? Who may take over certain areas of the game?
“Then prepare them to help the captain, vice-captain, attack, defense, or whatever it is, and gradually increase their responsibilities and capability.
“We’ve done a lot of work on that.”
With Super Rugby Pacific starting in a few days, Robertson hopes that the New Zealand teams can continue to lead the league while still performing well under pressure.
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