NZ Rugby has moved to quash suggestions that Scott Robertson has effectively handed over the All Blacks reins to one of his assistants.
The discussion was sparked by a report last month claiming Robertson had told the New Zealand Herald that assistant coach Scott Hansen “effectively operates in the role most would recognise as the head coach”. The comment raised eyebrows given Robertson only took up the All Blacks job this season.
Speaking during a media briefing after NZ Rugby confirmed the All Blacks’ 2026 home fixtures, general manager of professional rugby Chris Lendrum dismissed the interpretation.
“I think the sentiment is out of context a bit,” Lendrum said. “Scott Hansen helps to set up the performance week for the All Blacks. The head coach of the All Blacks is Scott Robertson – that’s exactly what we appointed him to do.”
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Hansen has long been Robertson’s right-hand man, stretching back to their Crusaders days where he often ran training sessions and led game-planning. Robertson has frequently credited Hansen’s tactical influence, including during their 2022 Super Rugby final win over the Blues.
“Scottie Hansen and I need each other,” Robertson said before stepping into the All Blacks role.
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