Crusaders coach Scott Robertson will take over as All Blacks coach in 2024.
The 48-year-old was billed as a frontrunner for the job alongside former Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph, who has enjoyed remarkable success as head coach of Japan.
But New Zealand Rugby yesterday confirmed bop-dancing Robertson would succeed Ian Foster following the World Cup.
Robertson led the Crusaders to four consecutive Super Rugby titles.
The former All Black loose forward also guided Canterbury to three NPC titles.
His trademark celebration dance singled him out as one of the more colourful characters in the game.
He has been appointed for four years from 2024 through to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Joseph, who was understood to have nominated former All Black Tony Brown as his assistant, stood out as an excellent candidate as well.
He has an impressive international resume, and led the Highlanders to their only Super Rugby title in 2015.
But Robertson has been more visible and certainly more vocal in his aspirations.
He played 23 tests for the All Blacks from 1998 to 2002 and played 86 games for the Crusaders.
"It’s a job that comes with a huge amount of responsibility, but I’m excited by the opportunity to make a contribution to the legacy of the black jersey," Robertson said.
"To represent your country, as a coach or player, is the ultimate honour in sport and it’s humbling to be given that opportunity.
"I can’t wait."
New Zealand Rugby will announce further key appointments to his coaching and management team in coming months.
