The All Blacks coach search 2026 is entering its final critical weeks. As of late February 2026, the NZ Rugby appointment panel has reportedly narrowed the shortlist to just 2–3 serious candidates after extensive interviews, site visits, and stakeholder feedback. While no official name has been confirmed, the process is still on track for a mid-to-late March decision — giving the new All Blacks coach time to prepare for the extremely demanding 2026 Nations Championship season.

All Blacks Coach Search 2026: Current Status & Timeline

The five-person panel — led by David Kirk and including Keven Mealamu, Dane Coles, Don Tricker, and Steve Lancaster — has completed assessments of domestic and international options. Dave Rennie and Jamie Joseph remain the clear frontrunners, but the panel is taking extra care to ensure the chosen All Blacks coach can deliver World Cup 2027 progress. A mid-March announcement is widely expected.

Super Rugby Pacific Round 3: Talent Emerging for New All Blacks Coach

Round 3 provided more valuable viewing for the incoming national coach:

  • Chiefs 38-35 Hurricanes: Damian McKenzie masterclass in Hamilton
  • Moana Pasifika 33-29 Crusaders: Second straight upset for Moana
  • Blues 41-12 Fijian Drua: Blues rebound strongly at home
  • Highlanders 22-19 Waratahs: Cameron Millar seals it late

Standouts so far include Cortez Ratima, Ruben Love (Hurricanes), and several young locks/forwards showing physical edge — all names likely to interest the next All Blacks coach.

Why the Next All Blacks Coach Must Act Fast in 2026

The 2026 calendar is one of the toughest ever: 13 Tests, home openers against France (Christchurch), Italy and Ireland, the historic four-Test tour of South Africa (including neutral venue in USA), Bledisloe Cup defence, and November away internationals. The new coach will need early clarity and momentum — Super Rugby form will heavily influence initial selections.

Full confirmed 2026 schedule → All Blacks 2026 Fixtures
Home Test tickets registration → All Blacks 2026 Tickets
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