Well respected Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph has not dismissed the chance of once again applying for the job of All Blacks boss.
The 55-year-old is considered one of the most talented coaches in the game having enjoyed success with various teams.
However, he has not yet managed to get the New Zealand gig having missed out to Ian Foster in 2019 and Scott Robertson in 2023.
Appearing on The Breakdown, Joseph was asked whether he remained interested in the role and if he would consider applying when it next becomes available.
Joseph’s ‘priority’
“That’s a difficult question to answer whether it’s yes or no because there are so many dynamics, especially for me,” he responded.
“I returned home, I was away for eight years, still got a daughter here. A big part of my job is coaching rugby but the other part is being a father and being a support to my wife. Being away for such a long time does take a strain and you miss your children, so that’s my priority.
“I’m a realist around that role, it’s a big job, it’s a job I feel I’ve got the experience to do but there’s some really competent and good coaches there at the moment.
“I have to either wait my turn or go and find another job somewhere at some stage.”
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Joseph led the Highlanders to a shock Super Rugby triumph in 2015 before taking on the role of Japan head coach in 2016.
Under his guidance, the Brave Blossoms qualified for the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals for the first time ever.
He stepped down following the conclusion of the 2023 global tournament and returned to Dunedin ahead of the current Super Rugby Pacific season.
Now back in New Zealand, All Blacks legend Jeff Wilson hopes that Joseph remains in the system and can therefore contribute to developing the game in the country.
Keeping him in New Zealand
“He’s in the perfect job in New Zealand right now – coaching a really young group. That’s hugely beneficial to the game here in New Zealand and you can see he is comfortable with his role,” Wilson said.
“He’s really committed to what he’s doing there now, I don’t think he’s in any rush to go anywhere. He wants to run the course here, he’s done what he’s done overseas.
“It’s too early to start talking about that (the All Blacks job). It’s nice to know that there’s someone we believe was probably good enough. He’s world-class.
“I would like to see him stay here and not be like Clayton McMillan.”
Fellow All Blacks great Justin Marshall went a step further and urged NZR to make sure that they do not lose Joseph overseas for a second time.
“Jamie looks settled and looks really motivated as well. He’s very clear about getting good people around him. I certainly feel we need to keep him here with whatever it takes,” Marshall said.
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/jamie-joseph-gives-verdict-on-difficult-all-blacks-question-after-twice-being-snubbed-for-main-role-as-nzr-urged-to-do-whatever-it-takes
