NZRU hangs on to AB coaches
Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:12
New Zealand rugby boss Steve Tew has indicated that the New Zealand Rugby Union does not want two of their top coaches to take up other offers in the near future.
Recent reports suggests that All Blacks forwards coach Steve Hansen will join backline boss Wayne Smith in defecting to Ospreys.
Tew said it was too early to say whether Smith could be retained but made it clear "it's not a done deal as some people are suggesting it is".
The Swansea club has made Smith an impressive offer that the backs coach has confirmed he will consider after the November tour to Britain and Ireland.
"There is a bit of heat in the media around Smithy, but the coaches are just like our players, they are hot property, they are the best in the world at what they do and they operate in the global market," Tew told NZ Rugbyheaven.
There have since been reports that Hansen might shift with Smith.
"In an ideal world these guys were appointed till the end of 2009 - to date they have done an outstanding job in 2008 and we would like them to carry on and fulfill their commitment.
"But we are also mindful that they have earned the right to decide their futures. In Smithy's case he has been a very loyal servant to New Zealand since 1997
Tew accepted all of New Zealand's top coaches were vulnerable to lucrative overseas job offers. He also defended the coaches' rights to test the employment market despite having only just been controversially re-appointed to the All Blacks after last year's World Cup debacle.
"My personal view is that he has the right to decide what's best for him and his family at whatever time he decides it.
"He will have a very clear indication and encouragement from us that we want to keep him."
