Rennie's 'unknown factor' to haunt Boks?
OPINION: Dave Rennie’s appointment as the new All Black head coach brings an unknown element to the team, which could surprise the Springboks in the Greatest Rivalry Series.
Rennie’s appointment has been hailed by fans and pundits across the globe as the All Blacks look to reclaim their status as the world’s best team once more.
During his stint as head coach of the Wallabies, Rennie and Rassie Erasmus indirectly faced off as coaches during the time Jacques Nienaber held the main title, with Erasmus serving as the Director of Rugby at the time.
But that was a long time ago, and much has changed since.
Rennie has to start from scratch and has 18 months to turn the ship around heading into the 2027 World Cup. Does that sound familiar?
There are a few questions following Rennie’s appointment that the Bok coaches will ponder in preparation for the upcoming Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series and with a long-term view on defending their World Cup title.
Who will be his assistants?
There will be sleepless nights for the likes of Jason Ryan, Scott Hansen, and Tamati Ellison, who might be replaced by Rennie’s own selection of assistant coaches.
Rennie might turn to former All Black assistant and Women’s World Cup-winning coach Wayne Smith to join his backroom staff.
The duo worked together between 2012 and 2014 at the Chiefs, where they won back-to-back Super Rugby titles in 2012 and 2013 after a dismal 2011 campaign under former head coach Ian Foster.
Current New Zealand XV and Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph, who missed out on the top position, could also be roped in to join the All Blacks as an assistant.
These are respected names with strong personalities and could just be what the doctor ordered to turn the ship around for the Kiwis.
Who will be the captain?
Rennie will most likely look at his experienced campaigners to lead the side.
Scott Barrett allegedly wasn’t a favourite with his team, but Rennie has worked closely with Ardie Savea during his stint with the Kobe Steelers in Japan.
Savea is a popular figure, has the respect of the changing room, and has the credentials of being an All Black captain.
Alternatively, Rennie could entrust Chiefs flanker Luke Jacobson, Hurricanes centre Jordie Barrett, or pull a wildcard in the returning Richie Mo’unga to lead the side; however, the latter might be unlikely.
Fight fire with fire?
Rennie’s player selection could be an indicator of what style he’d like the All Blacks to play.
The All Blacks have always been known for their fast ball-in-hand style, but as the saying goes, “it starts up front.”
The All Blacks’ identity won’t ever change, but much like the Boks, Rennie could use the Erasmus blueprint of mixing up physical dominance with flair and aerial skills.
There will also be more clarity than there was under Scott Robertson, and whilst there could be growing pains, these elements could make the All Blacks the best team in the World once more.
