On the latest episode of Rugby Direct, Elliott Smith and Liam Napier are back to discuss the fallout around Scott Robertson's departure from the All Blacks, the criteria NZ Rugby has set for coaching applicants, and who the contenders are in what looks to be a small-field race.

We also discuss Vern Cotter being ruled out of said race by taking on the Queensland Reds job from next year.

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The New Zealand Rugby Union has confirmed the news they have parted ways with All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson just 2 years in to his 4-year contract.

Following an in-depth review of the 2025 season, NZR Chair David Kirk confirmed the trajectory of the team is not where it needs to be in the current Rugby World Cup cycle and the search for a new head coach will start immediately.

Newstalk ZB rugby editor Elliott Smith and New Zealand Herald rugby writer Gregor Paul unpack today's announcement.

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In the wake of a scathing internal review on the All Blacks coaching squad, pressure is mounting on NZR to make changes as players revolt.

Elliott Smith and Liam Napier discuss the breaking news.

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