International – Wayne Smith has been appointed selections coach for New Zealand

Wayne Smith has been appointed ‘Performance Coach’ in New Zealand’s selections. He will have a cross-sectional role within the All Blacks and Black Ferns where he will play a mentor to in-office coaches, respectively Scott Robertson and Alan Ponting. Because, yes, his stint with the men’s team will only begin after the 2023 World Cup, during which he will not be interfering with Ian Foster.

Smithey’s contribution and insight into the shape and trends of the game at international level will be invaluable to coaches and players alike, but his integrity, honesty, passion for the jersey and concern for the legacy of the black jersey are invaluable.Mark Robinson, General Manager of the New Zealand Federation.

World Champion in 2022

Former Blacks opening half, men’s team coach (2000-2001) and New Zealand Women’s World Champion in 2022, Wayne Smith is familiar with all the blacks with white ferns affixed to the heart. If his past with girls is recent, he also knows some boys as they worked as an assistant to Steve Hansen (2015-2017). ““I have a deep relationship and love for all the teams that wear the black jersey in particular the Black Ferns and the All Blacks. I also have strong relationships with the head coaches and many players so this role within the two teams feels natural to me and I hope it allows me to contribute to both environments.”captured the main interested party.