Rennie began his introductory press conference in Auckland with the Maori greeting Kia orana koutou. He acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that overhauling the dominant Springboks and leading the All Blacks to a first World Cup success since 2015 represents a huge task. According to Rennie, he has about 15 months to prepare for the World Cup, describing the timeline as a sprint. He said it would take a lot of work to get the athletes ready. Rennie expressed excitement about the role, adding he was proud and honoured to get the job. The specific terms or duration of Rennie's contract have not been disclosed, nor have the exact reasons for Robertson's dismissal been detailed publicly.
Rennie brings extensive coaching experience to the position. He previously coached New Zealand under-20s to three straight junior world titles from 2008 to 2010 and led the Chiefs to back-to-back Super Rugby crowns in 2012 and 2013. More recently, he served as head coach of Australia for 34 Tests before being dismissed in early 2023. His specific plans or strategies to prepare the All Blacks for the World Cup remain unclear at this early stage.
Jamie Joseph was reportedly the favourite for the New Zealand coaching job but missed out to Rennie. According to Rennie, Joseph messaged him immediately after learning the news. In coaching staff appointments, Mike Blair will join the New Zealand backroom staff as an attack coach under Rennie. Blair was Rennie's assistant at Glasgow Warriors and has been working with him at Kobelco Kobe Steelers since 2023. In an official statement, Blair said he was proud and honoured to be joining the All Blacks coaching group. It is not yet known who else will be appointed to the New Zealand coaching staff besides Blair.
In a separate development in rugby league, Brian McDermott will be named as Shaun Wane’s successor as head coach of the England men’s national team later this week. McDermott is the most successful coach in Super League history, having guided Leeds Rhinos to eight major honours. He reportedly saw off interest from Sam Burgess, Brad Arthur, Paul Rowley, and Steve McNamara for the England coaching role. McDermott will be unveiled as England coach on Thursday, though the specific terms or duration of his contract have not been announced.