Rennie wins over doubters as New Zealand embraces new era

July 20 : Dave Rennie’s appointment as All Blacks coach was initially greeted with scepticism, but a flawless 3-0 start to the Nations Championship has swiftly reshaped perceptions of the man chosen to replace Scott Robertson.

New Zealand signed off from the southern hemisphere leg of the new, global tournament with a thumping 40-21 win over Ireland on Saturday, having already crushed Italy 47-17 and edged an understrength France 34-32 in their opener.

While there was quibbling from the nation's loudest rugby pundits after the France and Italy wins, the All Blacks' commitment to a fast and furious running game under Rennie generated rave reviews after the Ireland demolition.

"The fog that sat over this team throughout 2024 and 2025 has lifted – and the All Blacks now have a universally understood vision of being a team that plays at a high-tempo with a multi-option attack plan," wrote the New Zealand Herald's Gregor Paul.

Only months ago, fans were lamenting a lack of global interest and competition in the recruiting process for a new coach following Robertson's abrupt departure in the off-season.

Rennie's only opponent for the role was another New Zealander in Jamie Joseph, the long-serving Japan coach.

After Robertson's lack of experience at test level was exposed, New Zealand Rugby wanted a coach with international experience. 

Many in the nation backed Joseph to take the reins, having done great things with Japan, including taking them to a first World Cup quarter-final on home soil in 2019.

Rennie arrived with a less compelling record and was sacked by Australia in 2023 to make way for Eddie Jones. His 38 per cent win rate stands as the worst among Wallabies coaches with over 30 tests in charge.

Three weeks into his All