“Rugby Shake-Up: All Blacks’ Attack Coach Exits Before Key South Africa Tests”
The former Blues head coach joined the All Blacks coaching staff after Scott Robertson took over as the national team’s head coach. Robertson specifically chose MacDonald to be his attack coach when he replaced Ian Foster after the Rugby World Cup. However, it became evident that their collaboration wasn’t effective, leading to MacDonald’s departure before the upcoming matches against the Springboks in South Africa.
Scott Hansen and Tamati Ellison will take on additional roles following MacDonald’s exit. Hansen will assist with the All Blacks’ attack alongside backs coach Jason Holland, while Ellison, the current skills coach, will focus on defense for the remainder of the season.
Robertson stated that he and MacDonald had been having honest discussions about their differing views, leading to the decision that it was best for the team to part ways. Both Robertson and MacDonald deeply care about the All Blacks and believe this decision is in the team’s best interest.
MacDonald and Robertson had previously worked together with both the Crusaders and All Blacks, but their coaching paths diverged when MacDonald joined the Blues. After four years in Auckland, they reunited with MacDonald becoming an assistant coach. Despite this, their differing philosophies became apparent after just five matches.
NZR’s head of professional rugby and performance, Chris Lendrum, noted that the coaches’ extensive discussions led to a tough but necessary decision for the team’s benefit.