Steve Hansen set to replace Graham Henry as All Blacks head coach - Rugby News
All Blacks assistant coach, Steve Hansen, who worked closely with the Graham Henry during Rugby World Cup 2011, is ready to replace his predecessor for the big post. Henry expressed his desire to take command of All Blacks as head coach on November 4 and
said that he is ready for the dream position. The seat has been left vacant by Graham Henry, who resigned just a week after winning the Webb Ellis Trophy for New Zealand.
Earlier, Hansen has been backed by his ex-boss for the post for his long affiliation with the All Blacks. Graham Henry suggested New Zealand Rugby Union boost the assistant coach to the next level as he has been working with the players for last seven years.
Hansen was hired by NZRU back in 2004 and he has been performing his duties since then with his national side. Earlier, he has worked with Welsh side as head coach for two years. Interestingly, Hansen was handed over the role of Wales head coach after the
departure of Henry, there as well
During his work period with the All Blacks, he played a vital role to make the side undisputed number 1 team of the world. He is no doubt strongest candidate to be employed as the new boss of All Blacks but the final decision is to be made by New Zealand
Rugby Union in next few days.
Meanwhile, talking to media, Hansen said that if he is not appointed as head coach of All Blacks, it will be a matter of great disappointment for him. He added that, “I believe I'm ready for it, I'm excited by the thought of it but I have to get it first.
There are no assumptions from me that is the case. I have to go and present well and convince the panel I can do that and I'm confident I can do the right thing.”
He further said that, “If not, it'll be hugely disappointing. I've been part of a team for eight years and I've always been a believer that the team comes first and the individual comes second.”
New Zealand Rugby Union has so far not made any decision in this regard.
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