All Blacks head coach Ian Foster has announced changes to the coaching group ahead of the 2022 Rugby Championship.
Robust and in-depth conversations took place with various stakeholders following last month’s Ireland series defeat, focusing on finding ways to improve performance both now and leading into the Rugby World Cup in 2023.
Forwards coach John Plumtree and backs coach Brad Mooar have now parted ways with the group after New Zealand’s historic 2-1 loss to the Irish on home soil.
John Plumtree has now parted ways with the All Blacks
“Right now, I am really feeling for two fine men who are great rugby coaches that made an enormous contribution to the All Blacks,” Foster said.
“I have no doubt both coaches will go on to great success and I want to thank them for their hard work.”
The All Blacks have agreed to terms with Crusaders and Fiji forwards coach Jason Ryan, who will join the team at camp in Wellington next week.
“Jason is a proven performer with plenty of experience at international level,” Foster said. “Last year we witnessed first-hand the impact he has made on Fiji’s forwards, adding to his continued growth as the forwards’ coach of the Crusaders.
“His appointment now is clearly with an eye to the future and the Rugby World Cup 2023.“
Joe Schmidt now formally starts his role as an independent All Blacks selector. In addition, Schmidt has a key analysis role and will work with Foster on overall strategy and attack play.
Foster will resume leading the backs in the short term.
