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NZR Begins Black Ferns Coach Search as Allan Bunting Steps Down

The decision follows a post‑2025 World Cup review, setting up a 2026 handover for a new four‑year cycle.

Overview

  • Allan Bunting confirmed he is stepping away following a thorough assessment of the Black Ferns’ 2025 World Cup campaign.
  • New Zealand Rugby has opened applications for the head coach role, with Chris Lendrum describing a robust recruitment process.
  • NZR says it hopes to have an appointment made by Christmas, ahead of the formal transition next year.
  • New Zealand lost to Canada in the semi-finals and beat France for bronze, as hosts England won the tournament.
  • Lendrum praised Bunting’s long service and programme-building, while Bunting called his tenure an honour and expressed optimism for his next chapter, as the team looks toward a pro calendar featuring the 2027 Women’s Lions tour.