New All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has been appointed to replace Scott Robertson ahead of the team's test against France in Christchurch on 4 July 2026.
Assistant coach Jason Ryan, the only member of Robertson's coaching staff retained under Rennie, said the new head coach had brought immediate clarity to the role. "Unbelievable. Tremendously clear on what he wants," Ryan said.
Rennie has emphasised a return to fundamentals, with skill work across all positions a priority. "He is pretty strong in his messaging around what's needed and what's required," Ryan said. "One of the things Rens has come in and driven is being brilliant at basics. We've put a lot of work into skill work in each area and for each player."
Ryan said the coaching staff had conducted sessions on All Blacks legacy and team identity in recent days. "We've dug in really deep to the All Black legacy over the last couple of days which has been really authentic and unique to the All Blacks, understanding it a little bit and who we want to be as a team, which has been really special actually having come from the last regime," Ryan said.
Ryan acknowledged uncertainty about his position before Rennie confirmed his retention. "I want to coach my country and there's no other team that I'd rather coach in the world than the All Blacks. It's a special team," Ryan said.
The All Blacks face France at One NZ Stadium on 4 July at 7.05pm as part of the Nations Championship.