All Blacks Coaching Search: Dane Coles Joins Selection Panel, Ian Foster & Steve Hansen Approached (2026)

The All Blacks are on the hunt for a new head coach, and the search has led to some intriguing revelations. But here's where it gets controversial... The mystery retired All Black who was initially kept under wraps has now been unveiled as Dane Coles, a former hooker with an impressive 90 caps for New Zealand between 2012 and 2023. Coles, who played over 140 matches for the Hurricanes, has now joined the panel to select the next All Blacks coach, along with Keven Mealamu, Don Tricker, and Steve Lancaster. And this is the part most people miss... The panel's role is to interview candidates and make a recommendation to the board, with the final decision yet to be made. Now, let's dive into the controversy... While former Wallabies boss Dave Rennie and ex-Japan head coach Jamie Joseph are considered frontrunners, neither has publicly expressed interest in the current vacancy. Additionally, there's a twist in the tale as Ian Foster and Steve Hansen, both former All Blacks coaches, have been approached by NZ Rugby to apply for the position. So, what do you think? Do you agree or disagree with the selection process? Share your thoughts in the comments! The search for the next All Blacks coach has been narrowed down, with NZ Rugby insisting that applicants must be New Zealanders with international head coaching experience. This has ruled out some potential candidates, including John Mitchell and Vern Cotter, who have other commitments. Now, let's explore the potential candidates in more detail... While Robbie Deans has ruled out a return to the international arena, Warren Gatland, Kieran Crowley, and Wayne Pivac are among the coaches who meet the criteria. And finally, here's a fun fact... Foster has been rumored to be considering a return to the All Blacks setup as an assistant coach, particularly if Joseph gets the position. So, stay tuned as the search for the next All Blacks coach continues, with no deadline in sight for the final decision and announcement.

All Blacks Coaching Search: Dane Coles Joins Selection Panel, Ian Foster & Steve Hansen Approached (2026)
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