This Monday, the New Zealand federation announced the recruitment of Tony Brown as attack coach. Here is a real war prize achieved by the South African rival.
There is still movement in All Blacks staff ! This Monday, the New Zealand federation announced the arrival of Tony Brown as attack coach. But it’s not for now. The one who has been serving with South Africa since 2024 will only take up his duties in 2028, at the end of his current contract. The former fly-half in eighteen matches with the Fern jersey has signed a two-year lease. Before being on Rassie Erasmus’ staff, he, for example, managed the Highlanders (2017 then 2021-2022) or was on the Japan staff during the 2019 World Cup.
“We know that Tony will be available after the 2027 Rugby World Cup and he has made it clear that he would like to be part of the All Blacks. This decision is simple: it is about ensuring that the best coaches return to New Zealand.explained in a press release the general director of the federation, Steve Lancaster.
Surprising timing
If this announcement delighted followers of New Zealand rugby – Tony Brown being a recognized technician in the industry – it was the timing that surprised. Indeed, the current staff of the All Blacks has still not led a single meeting… Indeed, after the dismissal of Scott Robertson on January 15, Dave Rennie was appointed coach on March 4 and there has not been an international meeting since.
“I 100% endorse the nomination, it’s absolutely brilliant. We sign it, but I don’t understand why we couldn’t have said to ourselves: there you go, three people in New Zealand know about it, and we’ll announce afterwards”commented former fly-half Stephen Donald.
