Blacks insist under-fire boss Henry must reapply

GRAHAM HENRYS future as All Blacks coach hung by a thread last night as the New Zealand Rugby Union said he would have to reapply for his job following the failed World Cup campaign.

The move to put the coaching position up for grabs could pit Henry against the most successful coach in the Super 14 series, Robbie Deans.

The NZRU made its decision after a day-long review of the coaching and management team in France, where the All Blacks crashed out in the quarter-finals.

“There is no doubt that all involved in New Zealand rugby are disappointed with the outcome of Rugby World Cup 2007,” said NZRU board member and rugby committee chairman Mike Eagle, who made the announcement.

“That said, we also want to recognise and acknowledge the significant achievements of this coaching panel and the team — on and off the field — over the last four years.”

Eagle said applications to be All Blacks coach would close on November 26 and it was hoped to have the appointment made by Christmas.

Henry said he and his assistant coaches Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith now wanted to think about their futures and had not decided if they would reapply.

“We all want what is best for New Zealand rugby and understand the board’s decision to ask for applications,” he said. “All three of us will take time to think about the next steps and we’ll have a decision to make on the 26th.”

Despite the France exit, there has been strong public support for Henry, although Deans has long been considered a front-runner to take over.

A former All Black, he has taken the Canterbury Crusaders to four Super 14 titles since 2000.

* RTÉ tv will broadcast live coverage of the Wales v South Africa test on Saturday week.