Kiwis chasing Henry's signature
While World Cup-winning All Black coach Graham Henry is yearning for some ‘down time’, he is being bombarded with ‘offers’ and suggestions from around the world about what to do in future.
Henry has made it clear he is likely to step down as All Black coach, but admitted that he would like to remain involved in the game in some capacity.
And the New Zealand Rugby Union has wasted no time in “talking” to him about a role in his home country.
Henry, who will leave the All Blacks with a brilliant 85 percent winning record, has been linked to jobs in Europe and in New Zealand.
Although the Welsh outfit Cardiff Blues have denied they have any formal interest in Henry, the rumours have not stopped.
The All Blacks coach also admitted to the Telegraph that if the right opportunity presented itself he would love to work with the Rugby Football Union in English in some advisory capacity.
However there is a likelihood that if Henry steps down he will take on a restructured position somewhere within New Zealand.
Assistant coach Wayne Smith has already followed this path, confirming he will work with Dave Rennie next year at the Chiefs.
There are reports from stuff.co.nz that the Blues are interested in working with Henry, a two-time championship winning coach with the Auckland based franchise.
Blues boss Andy Dalton said such a dream union could work again.
“He’s got a wonderful relationship with all the franchise coaches,” said Dalton.
“We know he’s got a close relationship with Pat and they have worked together previously. If he was available to work with the Blues and other franchises, it would be fantastic for New Zealand rugby.”
New Zealand Rugby Union Chief Executive Steve Tew indicated to Fairfax Media that initial discussions have already begun with Henry.
However Tew, like Henry, is remaining tight lipped for now on what the future of the World Cup winning mentor will be.
“Graham and I have already had a couple of conversations, as you would expect,” said Tew.
“I think people respect the fact that he’s entitled to take a little bit of time and enjoy the peace that he’s finally found. But we’d love to keep him involved in the game here.
“Our ambition is to have the best people in the sport contributing in this country.
“We’re delighted Smithy chose to stay and get involved in the Chiefs, and Steve’s made clear he’ll be a candidate for the All Blacks job. Graham has indicated how he’d like to structure the rest of his involvement. I think we can find a way of accommodating that where we benefit significantly and he’s able to do what he wants to do.”
“If he does choose to end his international career, which most people expect him to do, he’ll retire with a winning record I doubt is ever going to be matched.
“It would be fair to say he’ll be a highly sought-after property.”
