Former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has been appointed as an independent All Blacks selector.
The 56-year-old will replace former New Zealand fly-half Grant Fox in the role, who is stepping down after next summer’s Tests.
Schmidt has also taken up a part-time coaching role with Auckland-based side the Blues, where he will take up a support role in the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific.
He comes back to his native New Zealand with a wealth of experience and success from several top-level coaching roles in Europe, most recently as Ireland head coach where he won three Guinness Six Nations titles between 2013 and 2019, and guided Ireland to their first-ever wins over the All Blacks, as well as taking the Men in Green to top spot in the world rankings.
Schmidt had previously led Leinster to two European Champions Cup successes, an Amlin Challenge Cup and a PRO12 title in three years after taking over from Michael Cheika in 2010, having initially ventured to Europe as a backs coach at Vern Cotter’s Clermont Auvergne, helping them secure French Top 14 glory.
And All Blacks head coach Ian Foster was thrilled to have a coach as decorated as Schmidt in his set-up.
He said: “Joe will bring a wealth of New Zealand and international experience into the role, so we are delighted to have him join us.
“He will work closely with me and Plums [All Blacks assistant coach John Plumtree] on selections but his insights will be valuable in other areas as well, so we look forward to having him join us.”
Schmidt himself is excited for the opportunity to be involved with the All Blacks, saying: “It’s humbling to be involved and I’m looking forward to learning more about the players and the All Blacks environment and helping out as best I can.”
