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CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND – MARCH 09: Assistant coach Jason Ryan looks on during the Crusaders Super Rugby training session at Rugby Park on March 9, 2020 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)
Crusaders forward Jason Ryan joins the All Blacks coaching team after the sacking of assistants John Plumtree and Brad Mooar.
Ryan’s appointment was announced on Sunday by All Blacks head coach Ian Foster in a statement following “robust and in-depth talks” following the series’ defeat to Ireland.
Forward coach John Plumtree and backs coach Brad Mooar have “now said goodbye to the group”.
“Right now I really feel for two fine men who are great rugby coaches who have made a huge contribution to the All Blacks,” said Foster. “I have no doubt that both coaches will be a great success and I want to thank them for their hard work.”
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The All Blacks have reached an agreement with Ryan, the coach of the Crusaders and Fiji, who will join the team at their camp in Wellington next week.
“Jason is a proven artist with a lot of experience at an international level,” said Foster.
“Last year we witnessed the impact he has made on Fiji’s forwards, contributing to his continued growth as a forwards coach for the Crusaders. His appointment now is clear with a view to the future and the RWC 2023.”
Joe Schmidt is now formally starting his role as an independent All Blacks selector. In addition, Schmidt has an important analysis role and will work with Foster on the overall strategy and attacking game.
Foster will resume the spine shortly.
Ryan has been Scott Robertson’s right-hand man and forward coach with the Crusaders since 2017.
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John Plumtree (L) and Brad Mooar in 2020. They have been fired as assistant coaches to All Blacks.
Plumtree, a former Hurricanes head coach, has also served as All Blacks selector and has been Foster’s head assistant since 2007.
Clearly Plumtree and Feek did not rate favorably after the 2021 end-of-year tour, and players have been consulted again after the 2-1 home series defeat to Ireland.
Ryan will team up with Greg Feek, the All Blacks scrum coach.
The Crusaders have confirmed that Ryan will be leaving them to take on the role of All Blacks.
“Jase has been a key member of our coaching group for the past six years and came back on board in 2017,” the Crusaders said in a statement.
“During that time he has left his mark on this club and has built strong relationships with coaches, management, players and staff. Not to mention six Super Rugby titles.
“He is an innovator, a leader in his field, and he has instilled a strong ‘better or be beat’ mentality in this team and organization.
“While it is bittersweet for us, we want to take advantage of this moment to celebrate Jase’s success. We are so proud of him and know that this is a huge opportunity to represent his country in a sport and role he is so passionate about.
“We thank him for pouring his heart and soul into red & black and wish him all the best for his new role! Whenever we get the chance we will sit down with Jase to hear about his time with the Crusaders and share it with our fans, but for now we look forward to his success in this new role. ?
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