Overview
- Media reports of an internal New Zealand Rugby review say senior All Blacks are deeply unhappy with the team’s coaching, culture and direction.
- Head coach Scott Robertson and senior assistant Scott Hansen were singled out in player feedback, according to the New Zealand Herald.
- Ardie Savea is described as seriously unhappy and is exploring staying in Japan or moving to Europe, with Leinster mentioned in reports though Irish media say such a move is unlikely.
- Savea is contracted to NZ Rugby until 2027, and any overseas deal would likely make him ineligible for selection under policy, potentially affecting his availability for the ‘Greatest Rivalry’ series in South Africa.
- The unrest reportedly extends beyond Savea, with at least one senior Blues player declining a late 2025 call-up, as pressure builds on NZR leadership during a CEO transition.