Assistant coach Leon MacDonald has shared insight into the unique selection process of the New Zealand squad under All Blacks boss Scott Robertson for 2024.
The Kiwis start their season with a two-Test home series against England in Dunedin on 6 July, before a match against Pacific neighbours Fiji in San Diego, USA, as part of New Zealand ’s 14-match schedule this year.
In a rematch of the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, the All Blacks will face the Boks in the Rugby Championship in back-to-back clashes in the Republic.
Speaking in a wide-ranging interview with The Breakdown, MacDonald explained that the All Blacks’ squad selection process has undergone a significant transformation, involving a collaborative approach among all the assistant coaches.
It includes contributions from MacDonald, Jason Ryan, Jason Holland, and Scott Hansen, who were each tasked by Robertson with naming their preferred players. This inclusive strategy encourages thorough analysis and robust discussions to finalise a 32-player roster, comprising 18 forwards and 14 backs.
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“It’s been an interesting process,” MacDonald told The Breakdown. “A little bit different setup than I’ve used in the past, but I’ve felt it’s worked really well. It’s meant we’ve been able to really dig deep into our positions and present cases back to the group.
“The responsibility lies in your court to make sure you’re getting it right. I’ve been doing the outside backs. I’ve tracked every outside back in the country, and been following them really closely.”
The revamped selection strategy began last year with the coaching team outlining their desired style of play, which was essential to address shortcomings from previous Rugby World Cups.
“Then, from there, when we’re really clear around how we wanted to play, let’s get the right players to allow us to play the game we want to play,” MacDonald said.
“That’s where the debate begins. Strong set piece vs mobility versus whatever. We’re just making sure it aligns back to the start and how to play the game both on attack and defence.”
Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
