Ireland head coach Andy Farrell speaks to the media after the Guinness Six Nations match at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Picture date: Sunday February 14, 2021.
Graham Henry has resigned as All Blacks coach, nine days after leading New Zealand to its second World Cup victory at home.
The 65-year-old, whose team defeated France 8-7 in the final at Eden Park, told a news conference in Auckland that he had “had enough” after eight years in the position regarded his country’s second-most scrutinized after Prime Minister.
“It has been a privilege to be involved in the All Blacks,” he said during a news conference in Auckland. “I am quite proud of what they have accomplished over the last eight years. They have undoubtedly contributed to the heritage of All Blacks rugby.”
In addition to the World Cup victory, Henry led the All Blacks to 88 wins in 103 tests, won five Tri-Nations titles, swept the 2005 British and Irish Lions, and completed grand slam tours in 2005, 2008, and 2010.
Henry, who has been linked with a berth in England’s squad or a return to the Auckland Blues, where he excelled before moving into test rugby, said he will make no quick announcements about his future plans.
“I’d just like to say thanks to the guys who have played over those eight years, those 103 tests,” he said. “Especially thanks to Tana Umaga and Richie McCaw who were the long-term captains over that time.”
Taking over the team in 2004, following stints as Wales
They were hot favourites to win the Webb Ellis Cup in 2007, but were eliminated in the quarter-finals by France in Cardiff.Henry was reappointed in late 2007, causing controversy in New Zealand, with many believing Mitchell’s assistant Robbie Deans, the immensely successful Canterbury Crusaders coach, should return to the All Blacks.
Following the decision, Deans crossed the Tasman to coach Australia, while Henry and assistants Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith worked to restore the All Blacks’ pride.
Hansen, the forwards coach, is now poised to succeed his mentor as head coach.
