Australia's Rugby Union has been left in a pinch after a prime candidate for the All Blacks' coaching position was 'blindsided' by the sudden sacking of Scott Robertson. The Queensland Reds have announced the appointment of Vern Cotter as their new head coach, a move that rules him out of the All Blacks' coaching race. This comes as a surprise to many, as Cotter was reportedly a strong contender for the role, having fit the criteria perfectly and having international experience as a head coach.
New Zealand Rugby's public advertisement for the All Blacks' head coach position set strict criteria, requiring candidates to be New Zealanders with international head coaching experience. Joe Schmidt, the outgoing Wallabies head coach, was reportedly a strong candidate but has now ruled himself out, leaving Cotter as one of the few remaining options. However, Cotter's move to Queensland has effectively ended his chances of becoming the All Blacks' coach.
Cotter's decision to join the Reds was influenced by his fascination with Australian rugby and sport, as well as the potential for growth within the team. He expressed his excitement about working in the Australian culture and the QRU's plans for the Reds. Cotter's impressive resume includes a Ranfurley Shield with Bay of Plenty, three Super Rugby titles, and a Top 14 title with Clermont.
Despite his disappointment at missing out on the All Blacks' coaching role, Cotter remains committed to his new team, having signed a two-year deal with the Reds. He acknowledges that coaching the All Blacks is a dream for many, but emphasizes the importance of timing and the need to honor his commitments to the Reds. New Zealand Rugby now has a challenging task ahead, as they search for a new coach with international experience to lead the All Blacks.
The Blues have already initiated a robust head coach appointment process to find Cotter's successor, ensuring a smooth transition for the club. This move demonstrates the club's commitment to transparency and long-term strategy, as they appreciate Vern Cotter's contributions to their success.
