Get ready for some exciting news, rugby fans! The announcement of the new All Blacks head coach is just around the corner, and it's a decision that has everyone on the edge of their seats.
This week, the formal interview process will take place, and by the end of it, we could have our new leader. A New Zealand Rugby delegation, including interim CEO Steve Lancaster and former All Black Dane Coles, has already met with two top contenders: Jamie Joseph, the Highlanders coach, and Dave Rennie, currently coaching in Japan.
But here's where it gets controversial... Rennie's team has a bye this weekend, which might allow him to fly to New Zealand for a face-to-face interview. Meanwhile, Joseph's Highlanders have a game on Saturday. Who will get the chance to shine in person?
Both Joseph and Rennie have impressive credentials, having coached international teams, and they are the only ones in the running for this prestigious role. However, Joseph might have to make a tough decision and leave the Highlanders immediately if he gets the nod. He's keeping his cards close to his chest, leaving us all wondering about his plans.
Rennie, on the other hand, is in his final season with the Steelers and would have to cut it short to take on the All Blacks job. One of his assistants, Peter Murchie, has already announced his departure to join the Wales national team.
An announcement can't come soon enough for the All Blacks staff and assistant coaches, who are eagerly awaiting news about their future with the team. We've heard that Joseph is more open to working with the current assistants, which could be a deciding factor.
And this is the part most people miss... Joseph's application would be even stronger if he could bring on board his former right-hand man, Tony Brown, who is currently contracted to the Springboks until after next year's World Cup.
In terms of timing, there's also the All Blacks' grueling eight-match tour of South Africa in August and September to consider. It's a challenging schedule, with three Tests and an additional match in Baltimore, USA, to boost revenue.
In July, the All Blacks host France, Italy, and Ireland in the inaugural Nations Championship. If Ian Robertson, who was dismissed in January, had remained as head coach, planning for these Tests would be well underway.
The delay in appointing a successor to Robertson has caused some anxiety among staff, but NZ Rugby is determined to get it right this time, especially after Robertson's tenure ended abruptly after just two years.
Any announcement will likely be made in Auckland, given the media's access there. New Zealand Rugby is also seeking a new chief executive and head of high performance, so it's a busy time for the organization.
Who do you think will get the top job? And what impact will this have on the All Blacks' future? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on this crucial decision!
