MacDonald quits as All Blacks assistant coach after 'differences' with head coach Robertson

Leon MacDonald's departure, announced Thursday, was sudden and unexpected.

Head coach Scott Robertson and former attack coach Leon MacDonald look on during the International Test match between New Zealand All Blacks and Argentina. Pic: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

Leon MacDonald quit as assistant coach of the All Blacks ahead of the squad’s departure for two Rugby Championship tests in South Africa over what head coach Scott Robertson described as “differing views.” MacDonald is a former head coach of the Blues in Super Rugby and previously worked as an assistant to Robertson at the Christchurch-based Crusaders.

His departure, announced Thursday, was sudden and unexpected.