NZ drop the axe on Robertson

Sacking after review leaves coach ‘gutted’

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New Zealand fired coach Scott Robertson yesterday less than two years before the Rugby World Cup, after a scathing 2025 performance review and rumours of a player revolt.

The 51-year-old led the team to 20 wins in 27 matches, below powerhouse New Zealand’s expectations, while showing little improvement during his two years in charge.

New Zealand Rugby’s internal review of performance found strong criticism from senior All Blacks, including a suggestion that star player Ardie Savea could walk out.

New Zealand Rugby chair David Kirk said it was the right time to make a change, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup the “key goal”.

“The midpoint in the Rugby World Cup cycle is the right time to look at the All Blacks’ progress over the first two seasons,’ Kirk said.

“We've taken an extensive look at the team's progress on and off the field and have subsequently had discussions with Scott on the way forward.