New Zealand lose attacking director ahead of South Africa clash

When this information was announced, all New Zealand rugby observers used the same term: “bombshell” to comment on the news that Leon McDonald (46 years old, 56 international caps) had left the All Blacks management team.

He was responsible for the attack on the New Zealand team. Something didn't “click” between my playing philosophies.Head Coach Scott Robertson explained. By mutual agreement we decided to separate. » For several weeks, the two men had increasingly lively conversations.

More than their differences, which are useful in a tactical think tank, it is the timing of this break that is striking: 24 hours before the All Blacks leave for South Africa, and before two high-pressure matches against the Springbok, the two-time world champions, on August 31 in Johannesburg and then on September 7 in Cape Town, as part of the Rugby Championship.

All this after just five games played by New Zealand management. The first two wins, rick rak, against England (16-15, July 6 in Dunedin and then 24-17 at Eden Park the following week). An extraordinary success against Fiji (47-5) on July 20 in San Diego, USA. The All Blacks started the Rugby Championship with a humiliating defeat to Argentina (30-38, August 10 in Wellington) before taking revenge and destroying the Pumas the following week (42-10 at Eden Park).

Is the fluctuating performance related to these internal divisions? Robertson preferred to make a decision rather than procrastinate: Leon and I have had honest conversations for some time. As coaches, we have different views and we have mutually agreed that this is not working. Compromising our visions would not have been positive for the team. We have made the best decision for the All Blacks. »

The All Blacks' attack will be led by Scott Hansen in charge of defence, Jason Holland in charge of the three-quarters and Tamati Ellison in charge of communication and positioning.