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All Blacks' brutal coaching move rubs salt into Wallabies' wounds

Australian Associated Press

Glasgow head coach Dave Rennie has been approached in relation to the upcoming vacancy of New Zealand manager.

The two-time Super Rugby-winning coach has reportedly been Rugby Australia's frontrunner to take over the Wallabies from Michael Cheika, but now his native country have made a counter move.

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Steve Hansen will leave his role as All Blacks head coach after the World Cup third-place play-off.

When asked if he had been approached by New Zealand, Rennie told STV: "Yeah, they have probably made contact with a number of Kiwis who are coaching over this way about interest for the role.

Dave Rennie, pictured here in his role as head coach of Glasgow.
Dave Rennie in his role as head coach of Glasgow. (Photo by Ross Parker/SNS Group via Getty Images)

"I know they are going to have a process where they interview then make an appointment in the new year."

The 55-year-old added that it was obviously flattering and humbling because the All Blacks have always been such a great side.

"I guess I haven't had a lot of time to dwell on that because I'm totally focused on what I'm doing here," he said.

Rennie has previously stated he will see out his Warriors contract, which expires in June 2020.

The Wallabies, pictured here at the Rugby World Cup.
Rennie's appointment by the All Blacks would be a bitter blow for the Wallabies. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images,)

Springboks coach stepping down

Rassie Erasmus' tenure as South Africa head coach will come to an end after Saturday's final against England.

Erasmus has held the post since early 2018 while also acting as the nation's director of rugby, a role he will continue to perform post Japan 2019.

It was speculated that the 47-year-old former Springbok might retain the coaching reins for the Lions tour in two years' time, but current defence coach Jacques Nienaber is likely to be his successor.

"For me, it's an emotional one in the sense that I didn't think 25 Test matches will go that quickly," Erasmus said.

"The moment you get hands-on with the Springboks again, the adrenaline starts pumping and you get back into the mould and it's a totally different feeling.

"It's wonderful to be here. It's sad that there are only three days left and then it's all over.