As New Zealand looks ahead to the Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia. The All Blacks’ coaching setup is set for a shake-up. With Scott Robertson stepping down as head coach. Speculation is rife over who will take the reins for the next Rugby World Cup cycle. Several names have already emerged, including New Zealand-based and international coaches, each bringing a unique blend of experience and philosophy.
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Besides the potential impact on the team. One of the frontrunners for the head coach role is Jamie Joseph, the current Highlanders head coach. Joseph has a solid track record at both Super Rugby and international levels, and his appointment would likely shape the rest of the coaching staff. While his long-time assistant, Tony Brown, has confirmed he won’t follow him.
Joseph has other trusted Kiwi coaches he could bring into the All Blacks environment. Despite Robertson’s departure, NZR Chair David Kirk has confirmed that the existing All Blacks coaching staff—Scott Hansen, Jason Ryan, Tamati Ellison, and Bryn Evans remain under contract.
This leaves the possibility for continuity within the setup, depending on the preferences of the incoming head coach. In New Zealand rugby, it’s not unusual for coaches who were once head coaches elsewhere to step into specialist or assistant roles within the All Blacks system, which broadens the pool of potential candidates.
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One name that could move into a key defensive role is the Highlanders’ new defence coach, Kidwell. Often called Whoppa by teammates, he has climbed the coaching ladder quickly after a globe-trotting playing career. Kidwell brings a wealth of international experience, having coached the New Zealand Kiwis in the Rugby World Cup league between 2016 18.

Then serving as defence coach for Argentina under Michael Cheika in 2022, and most recently with Japan in 2024-25. His connection with Joseph, coupled with his expertise, could be invaluable in sharpening the All Blacks’ defensive structures ahead of the Rugby World Cup. Meanwhile, Scott Hansen, Jason Ryan, and Tamati Ellison are all strong contenders to remain as assistants.
Depending on the incoming head coach’s strategy. Jason Ryan, the current forwards coach, is particularly likely to stay due to his solid rapport with the players and his reputation within New Zealand rugby circles. Another intriguing option is Mike Goodman, currently an assistant with Ireland and a former attack coach for the British & Irish Lions in 2025.
The 43-year-old has coached across multiple environments, including Tasman, Crusaders, Leinster, and Ireland. His international experience and existing relationships with potential All Blacks assistants make him a strong candidate for an overseas appointment, although his contract with Ireland runs until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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The opportunity to coach in his country of birth could influence his decision. Mark Bleyendaal is a younger option who may not immediately come to mind. The former New Zealand U20 utility-back was pivotal to the Hurricanes’ attack between 2020 and 2024 before moving to Leinster to replace Goodman. Bleyendaal also has international experience from the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final.

Where he assisted Tonga under Toutai Kefu. His modern attacking approach could bring fresh ideas to the All Blacks, particularly after periods when the team struggled for creativity under Robertson. Then there’s Jane, whose defensive coaching at the Hurricanes and All Blacks XV ties him to Joseph. Jane’s expertise in high-ball defence and modern defensive structures makes him a strong.
Candidate either as a defence coach or a skills specialist. Similarly, Ellison could remain in his current role, maintaining continuity in the forwards coaching setup. Overseas specialists are also being considered. Ronan O’Gara, though ineligible for the head coach position due to NZR’s rules favoring New Zealand nationals with international head coaching experience, could still join as an assistant.
O’Gara, now head coach of La Rochelle, brings decades of experience at the highest level and could provide a fresh perspective in attack or defence. Likewise, France’s Edwards has demonstrated his defensive acumen, having played a crucial role in disrupting New Zealand’s play during Robertson’s tenure in the Rugby World Cup Final.
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NZ Rugby Faces Defining Decision Ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup
Finally, the Highlanders’ current skills coach, Smith, would be a natural fit for a back-three or skills-focused role. His experience with high-ball strategies and counterattacking play makes him a valuable asset for the modern game, where aerial skills are increasingly critical. In short, the All Blacks’ coaching reshuffle for 2026 presents a blend of continuity and innovation.

Joseph stands out as a likely candidate for head coach, but the supporting cast—ranging from established New Zealand assistants to internationally experienced coaches—will play a crucial role in shaping New Zealand’s bid for Rugby World Cup glory. With the mix of experience, youth, and international perspective.
The All Blacks are positioned to evolve strategically while retaining the core culture that has defined the team for decades. New Zealand Rugby faces a crucial decision as it reshapes the All Blacks coaching group ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Whether NZR opts for continuity through existing assistants or brings in fresh voices from overseas, the appointment will shape not only the results.
But the identity and direction of the team over the next two years. With strong candidates across defence, attack, forwards, and skills coaching, the All Blacks are well-positioned to build a balanced and modern coaching structure. The right blend of experience, innovation, and leadership could be the key to restoring New Zealand’s dominance on the world stage.
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