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'Best that I say nothing': Scott Robertson coy over All Blacks future
By Finn Morton
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson made international headlines earlier this year after dropping an All Blacks coaching bombshell ahead of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
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Following months of speculation and discussion, a smiling Robertson told reporters that New Zealand Rugby would make an announcement “in the next few days.”
The international rugby rumour mill was sent into overdrive on that Wednesday morning – only for the “next few days” to come and go without change.
Instead, more than a month later, similar rumours continue to persist.
Six-time Super Rugby winning coach Robertson is believed to be among the frontrunners for the position, along with Japan boss Jamie Joseph.
But Robertson has changed his approach to the relentless questions surrounding his future, insisting that “it’s best” that he says “nothing.”
“All those questions go back to NZR, about timing and process,” Robertson told reporters.
“You can ask me the question, but it’s really aligned and aimed at them.
“Anything around the NZR stuff, it’s best that I say nothing.
“Do I still want the job? Yeah, nothing’s changed on my behalf.
“But anything to do with the process, anything to do with announcements or other people’s decision is for NZR to answer.”
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After winning six titles in as many years with the Crusaders, Robertson’s team have begun their 2023 with an uncharacteristically poor run of form.
The Crusaders started their campaign with a disastrous 31-10 loss at home to the Chiefs, before bouncing back with win over the Highlanders in Super Round.
But an historic 25-24 loss to the Fijian Drua on Saturday has seen the defending champions fall to eighth on the ladder after three rounds.
Nobody saw this coming. The title holders had been stunned.
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But Robertson hasn’t begun to point fingers and blame the constant murmurs surrounding his future. Instead, the 48-year-old said that his “main focus” at the moment is the Crusaders.
“I’m really experienced, I’ve been around for a long time, understand the game, have been there and done it before,” Robertson added.
“I’ve got a job here to do, and that’s my main focus. Whatever happens on the side, I’ll front up for that as well.”
Following a slow start to the season, the Crusaders face a tough challenge against the Blues in Auckland on Saturday.
The clash is a rematch of last year’s Super Rugby Pacific final at Eden Park, which Robertson’s Crusaders won.
Probably wise to say nothing. Just gives the Tall Poppy folks ammo