Leon Macdonald has stepped down from his position as New Zealand assistant coach, just five games into Scott Robertson’s tenure, and on the eve of a challenging tour of South Africa.
In a remarkable press conference on Thursday, Robertson revealed that a clash of coaching styles had been causing friction within the All Blacks camp. The announcement came as the team prepared to depart for their matches against the Springboks.
Macdonald, a former full-back who earned 56 caps for New Zealand, previously guided the Blues to victory in the Super Rugby Trans Tasman competition in 2021.
“Leon and I have been having some honest conversations with each other for a little while now,” explained Robertson, the New Zealand head coach.
“As coaches we have differing views and both agreed it wasn’t working. Leon and I both care deeply about the All Blacks and we believe we’ve made a decision that’s best for this team.
“There’s a huge amount of respect and appreciation for Leon in the group and the work he’s put in to get us to this point in our journey.
“As a team we have acknowledged that contribution and our focus now needs to be on South Africa, it’s going to be two tough Test matches over there.”
Dan Carter didn’t hesitate when naming his ‘six’ toughest rugby opponents
Drawing from diverse Q&A sessions, including one with the Independent, he shared his top adversaries with fans and fellow rugby aficionados.
DID YOU KNOW? In the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final against Australia, Dan Carter kicked four penalties, two conversions and a drop goal, and was named the man of the match.
#6. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Dusautoir, a French rugby legend, epitomizes resilience and leadership. Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, he rose to prominence as a stalwart flanker and captained France to the 2011 Rugby World Cup final, earning the prestigious IRB Player of the Year award. His impact transcends borders, inspiring generations.
CARTER SAID: “He had some blinding games in big moments — none more so than in the 2007 and 2011 World Cup games against the All Blacks.”
DID YOU KNOW? He broke the record for most tackles in a match, making 38 tackles against the All Blacks in the 2007 World Cup final
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