Scott Robertson has secured his first coaching position since his dismissal by New Zealand Rugby, as further information emerges regarding his controversial exit from the All Blacks.
Robertson was among four coaches announced by the Barbarians, who are set to compete against the Springboks in Port Elizabeth prior to a Nations Championship campaign that will see the world champions take on England, Scotland, and Wales.
“The Barbarians unites the rugby community, so it is significant to be involved and to honor the jersey,” Robertson, who will coach alongside Pumas head coach Felipe Contepomi, stated.
The match on June 20 will occur just over six months after Robertson was let go by NZR, following an end-of-year review that allegedly included some negative feedback from players.
NZR chairman David Kirk was later cited as saying the team was not on the correct “trajectory” leading up to next year’s Rugby World Cup, with former Test coaches Dave Rennie [Australia] and Jamie Joseph [Japan] now in contention to succeed Robertson.
Robertson is believed to have a one-year non-compete clause in his contract that prevents him from joining another Test nation until 2027, after which he is expected to receive multiple coaching offers.
The 51-year-old has not publicly commented on his termination, following a statement issued on the day of his dismissal, but close friend and former All Blacks and Crusaders teammate Justin Marshall has provided some insights regarding Robertson’s exit.
During an appearance on The Good, The Bad & The Rugby ANZ podcast, Marshall mentioned that Robertson found out about his firing at the same time as everyone else.
“I’ve met with Razor since that unusual day,” Marshall said. “Seeing him about 10 days later was tough. As we know, he is very open with his emotions, Razor, and he is deeply invested in every team he coaches.
“His greatest ambition was to coach the All Blacks. So to be informed on that day, just like everyone else, was quite shocking for him. He was notified at the same moment the news was being shared with the public.
“He received no prior warning, and there was no opportunity for further discussions. The decision was made and taken out of his hands.”
Marshall’s comments contrast with Kirk’s statements in the announcement released by NZR in January confirming Robertson’s departure, which stated: “Both NZR and Scott agree it is in the best interests of the team that he depart his role as Head Coach.”
In the meantime, All Blacks centurion Mils Muliaina has expressed his support for Joseph, whose Highlanders have begun the Super Rugby season with a record of 1-1.
“For me, it’s Jamie, due to his tenacity; he is present and engaged,” Muliaina told Sky Sport’s The Breakdown. “However, they need to start planning; it’s the other aspects that matter.
“When you consider it, what are the criteria? They are clearly examining various factors. Does one coach desire a six-year term; does another prefer four years… what kind of support staff is needed? Those are the details they are trying to finalize, and it is crucial not to rush that process.
“But personally, I would like to see Jamie appointed to the position.”
Reports indicate that NZR is expected to make a decision regarding either Rennie or Joseph by the middle of next month.
