Canterbury Crusaders coach Robbie Deans has confirmed what everyone already suspected in that he wants to be named as the replacement All Black coach to Graham Henry.
Deans was previously involved with the All Blacks as John Mitchell’s assistant leading up to the unsuccessful 2003 World Cup.
The All Blacks had their worst-ever World Cup showing only reaching the qurter final and Henry is likely to be replaced even though he only lost three or four matches in the last four years.
“I am available, interested and keen to coach the All Blacks,” Deans told reporters.
Deans is considered to be one of the best coaches in the world and has overseen the Crusaders winning four Super 14 titles since 2000.
Deans will have to wait until December before the NZRU announce who will coach the All Blacks next year.
Deans’ availability for the All Blacks job means that he cannot apply for the Wallabies coaching job as they need to appoint someone ahead of the All Blacks and the Australian Rugby Union are due to start interviews on November 9 and this could compromise his position.
Speaking about the Wallaby job he said, “They’ve got a process to go through as well and they’ve got timelines they may want to meet. That’s the way it is.”
Henry’s assistant coach Steve Hansen is also considered to be high on the list.
