Rugby World Cup 2027: Former All Blacks mental skills coach Gilbert Enoka is set to return to the team, marking a significant reunion under new head coach Dave Rennie. Enoka’s comeback brings back a familiar face who played a major role during one of the most successful eras in the team’s history.
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Enoka spent two decades working with the All Blacks, helping guide the team through some of its most memorable moments. During his time with the squad, New Zealand won Rugby World Cup titles in 2011 and 2015.
Achievements that cemented the team’s dominance on the global stage. He stepped away from the role in 2023 after years of service, but his influence remained highly respected across the sporting world.
Since leaving the All Blacks, Enoka has stayed busy working in elite sports environments. He contributed his expertise to Chelsea Football Club, where he helped players sharpen their mental focus and resilience.
He also worked alongside New Zealand cricket coach Brendon McCullum with the England national cricket team. Supporting athletes as they handled the pressures that come with competing at the highest level. New Zealand Rugby confirmed today that Enoka will return to the All Blacks as the team’s leadership and mental performance coach.
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He will take over from Ceri Evans, who has been a key figure in the team’s mental skills program for many years. Alongside Enoka’s return, former team doctor James McGarvey will also rejoin the squad, replacing Martin Swan.
Head coach Dave Rennie, who was appointed last month to succeed Scott Robertson. Said bringing back experienced staff members like Enoka is a crucial step as the team prepares for demanding seasons ahead.
Rennie acknowledged the contributions of outgoing mental skills expert Dr. Ceri Evan. Highlighting the enormous impact Evans had during his long association with the All Blacks. I want to first recognize the important contribution that Dr. Ceri Evans has made to the team over the last two decades, Rennie said in a statement.
He praised Evans’ ability to help players perform under intense pressure, describing his knowledge and expertise as world-class. Rennie also noted that Evans leaves behind a powerful legacy that will continue to influence the team. Looking ahead, Rennie expressed excitement about Enoka’s return.
He explained that the upcoming seasons will be challenging, with a demanding schedule that includes an extended tour of South Africa this year and preparation for the Rugby World Cup. Rennie believes Enoka’s deep understanding of the team environment. Combined with his experience and strong relationships within the squad, will make a meaningful difference.
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The return of James McGarvey as team doctor is also expected to strengthen the support system around the players. McGarvey previously served as the All Blacks’ team doctor between 2020 and 2023, so he is already familiar with the role and the demands that come with it.
His professional relationship with Rennie goes back many years. Starting when they worked together with the New Zealand Under-20s in 2010 and continuing during their time with the Chiefs, beginning in 2012.
Rennie said that having someone like McGarvey return will make the transition smoother as the coaching staff and players prepare for the upcoming season. He explained that work is already underway behind the scenes.
And having staff members who understand the culture and expectations of the team helps build stability during periods of change. New Zealand Rugby’s interim chief executive Steve Lancaster also paid tribute to the outgoing staff members. He thanked Dr. Ceri Evans for sharing his wisdom and insight since he began working with the All Blacks in 2010.
Lancaster noted that Evans’ background is that of an elite athlete. A forensic psychiatrist made him widely respected around the world in the field of mental performance. His well-known Red-Blue mind model became an important tool used to help players manage pressure and maintain focus during high-stakes matches.
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