Rennie’s background as an attack coach is one reason he was preferred over Jamie Joseph to replace Scott Robertson. He will, therefore, grasp a large say in reshaping the All Blacks’ stuttering attack.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie (left) and New Zealand Rugby chair David Kirk shake hands at the press conference announcing the All Blacks coach’s appointment. Photo / Photosport
Whether Rennie collaborates with former Scotland halfback Mike Blair or existing All Blacks attack coach Scott Hansen, though, remains to be seen.
This is the prevailing unknown surrounding the new coaching team – and could be the last piece to be finalised.
The widely held assumption is that Jason Ryan will be the sole survivor from Robertson’s All Blacks coaching team but with one costly payout already made after terminating the head coach mid-contract, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is believed to be pushing for Rennie to strongly consider retaining Hansen.
The Herald understands Hansen and Ryan were both signed to four-year contracts, in line with Robertson.
Scott Hansen worked as an All Blacks assistant coach under Scott Robertson. Photo / Photosport
As Robertson’s right-hand man, Hansen held influential responsibilities and would therefore be among the most expensive assistants to move on.
Two years ago, Robertson was granted carte blanche to appoint his assistant coaches when he assumed charge of the All Blacks, which resulted in the largest management overhaul in two decades.
Regardless of the financial implications, Rennie must be free to hire those he knows, trusts and believes will work well together.
Scott Robertson (centre), with the assistants he selected (from left): Jason Ryan, Jason Holland, Scott Hansen and Leon MacDonald. Photo / Photosport
Rennie retaining Hansen in a complicated arranged marriage risks compromising the quest for a clean slate.
Working side-by-side at Kobe in Japan, Rennie and Blair could devise attacking plans for the All Blacks before entering official preparations for the first test in July.
But with differing views evident between the national body and Rennie on the attack coach, there are no guarantees that scenario will come to pass.
Phil Healey is likely to be the first domino confirmed for promotion to replace long-serving All Blacks strength and conditioning coach Nic Gill.
Taranaki head coach Neil Barnes is expected to join Rennie as his lead assistant by assuming chief responsibility for the forward pack and lineout, which could rescope Jason Ryan’s role to more of a focus on the scrum.
Taranaki coach Neil Barnes is considered likely to find a place in Dave Rennie’s team. Photo / Photosport
Tana Umaga is now the preferred candidate to link with Rennie and replace Tamati Ellison as defence coach – a role Umaga previously held with the Blues.
Umaga ranks among New Zealand’s most experienced Super Rugby mentors, having coached Toulon in France before returning home to guide Counties Manukau to Ranfurly Shield success and lead the Blues and Moana Pasifika over a 15-year period.
Last year, with a squad – other than Ardie Savea – that featured few players the other New Zealand Super Rugby Pacific teams wanted, Umaga led Moana to the cusp of the playoffs after knocking over the Crusaders, Blues, Hurricanes and Highlanders in a memorable campaign.
Umaga is off contract with Moana at the end of this season, which should pave the way for him to assume the defence portfolio with the All Blacks.
Recruiting Umaga could prove an astute move from Rennie on several fronts.
While others such as Craig McGrath at the Blues and former All Blacks wing Cory Jane with the Hurricanes are well-regarded defence coaches in New Zealand, Umaga’s presence within the All Blacks coaching team would command widespread respect.
Including the first Pasifika All Blacks captain alongside the first All Blacks head coach of Pasifika descent should also help instigate immediate shifts in a team seeking a cultural reset, following the relationship breakdowns that led to Robertson’s exit.
New Zealand rugby teams – like the sides in the NRL – are increasingly populated by Pasifika athletes.
Incorporating certain customs and fostering genuine connections to create an inclusive environment is the best way to evoke purpose, meaning and motivation from players from all walks of life.
Rennie and Umaga combining in the same coaching team should ensure the All Blacks are well placed to harness all backgrounds and beliefs on and off the field.
This was one aspect Robertson’s regime did not get right.
Liam Napier is a Senior Sports Journalist and Rugby Correspondent for the New Zealand Herald. He is a co-host of the Rugby Direct podcast.