Overview
- A New Zealand Herald-reported internal review details deep unhappiness among senior players with the team’s coaching, culture and direction.
- Ardie Savea is described as seriously unhappy and is exploring staying with Kobe in Japan or a move to Europe, with Leinster cited in reports.
- Savea remains contracted to NZ Rugby through 2027 and has delivered direct feedback to chair David Kirk following the 2025 tour.
- Scott Robertson and senior assistant Scott Hansen received pointed criticism as concerns cite strained coach–player relations, stagnant attack and defensive lapses.
- At least one senior Blues player reportedly declined a late 2025 call-up in Cardiff as NZR weighs responses during a CEO transition after Mark Robinson’s tenure.