Scott Robertson, head coach of the All Blacks, experienced his fifth loss since taking charge of the national team, following a 29-23 defeat against Argentina in Buenos Aires last weekend.
The loss marked another setback in Robertson’s tenure, as he faces mounting pressure ahead of the All Blacks’ upcoming clash against the Springboks at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday.
The defeat brought Robertson’s record to five losses in 19 Tests, the quickest accumulation of losses by an All Blacks coach in recent history.
His predecessors, including Ian Foster, Sir Steve Hansen, Sir Graham Henry, and John Mitchell, all took longer to rack up five defeats.
Robertson’s performance has been compared unfavourably to that of previous All Blacks coaches, especially with regard to consistency.
He took charge of the team in 2024 and has yet to find the steady winning streak that New Zealand fans are accustomed to.
The loss to Argentina follows a series of disappointing results, including defeats to South Africa, France, and Los Pumas earlier in the year.
Comparing All Blacks Coaches’ Early Tenure Losses
- Scott Robertson – 5 losses in 19 Tests
- Ian Foster – 3 losses in 19 Tests
- Sir Steve Hansen – 5 losses in 71 Tests
- Sir Graham Henry – 5 losses in 41 Tests
Robertson’s tenure continues to draw comparisons with Ian Foster, who only suffered three losses in his first 19 Tests, setting a high bar for the current All Blacks head coach.
Robertson’s latest defeat has intensified scrutiny, especially as he now faces a Springboks side poised for their own major challenge.
South Africa haven’t won at ‘fortress’ Eden Park since 1937, some 88 years ago.
Robertson, widely regarded as one of the best coaches in Super Rugby history, will be looking to bounce back quickly in what promises to be one of the most intense clashes in the rugby calendar.
The match against the Springboks at Eden Park will be crucial not just for Robertson’s immediate future, but for the All Blacks’ reputation on home soil.
Future of Robertson’s Tenure
With New Zealand’s next challenge against South Africa – a team they have not beaten in their last four encounters – Robertson faces the harsh reality of needing to reverse a troubling trend.
The All Blacks’ current losing streak against South Africa stands at four, and another loss in Auckland could leave him under severe pressure.
Robertson will need to make significant tactical adjustments, as the All Blacks’ dominance in world rugby faces its sternest test yet.
Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if the All Blacks can regain their former glory.
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