Title: World Cup-Winning Coach Steve Hansen Assists Wallabies Ahead of Rugby World Cup
In a surprising turn of events, esteemed coach Steve Hansen, who previously led the All Blacks to victory in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, has joined the Wallabies in an advisory role as they gear up for the upcoming tournament in France. Hansen has responded to a request from Eddie Jones, agreeing to share his insights and expertise with the Australian team before their opening match against Georgia on September 9.
Confirming his presence within the Wallabies’ camp, officials stated that Hansen will be assisting the team for approximately one week leading up to their warm-up match against France in Paris this Sunday. Notably, Rugby Australia will not be compensating him for his services during this period.
It is not uncommon for coaches from different teams and codes to be invited to provide their input to the Wallabies throughout the year. Although Hansen does not hold an official role this week, he is offering valuable advice to Jones whenever necessary.
Hansen, 64, has been carefully observing the Wallabies’ training sessions, familiarizing himself with the players and staff, and providing feedback where possible. While he has refrained from wearing official Wallabies attire, his attendance at Sunday’s match at Stade de France is anticipated. However, it remains uncertain whether he will join the Australian coaching box or watch from the stands.
The collaboration between Hansen and Jones has historical significance. In the 2019 World Cup semi-final, their teams, New Zealand and England, faced each other, resulting in a stunning upset with England prevailing over the All Blacks. Furthermore, the two coaches had previously coached against each other back in 1997 when they led the Crusaders and Brumbies, respectively, in Super Rugby.
Hansen’s support for the Wallabies is likely to surprise many rugby fans in New Zealand who never anticipated their World Cup-winning coach extending his expertise to their traditional rivals. However, his friendship with Ian Foster, the current All Blacks coach, remains unaffected. Foster will be succeeded by Scott Robertson beginning next year.
Expressing his admiration for Jones, Hansen highlighted the English coach’s passion for the game, quirky nature, strong work ethic, and profound care for the players and the sport. Jones, in turn, has depicted Hansen as a great coach and a significant figure in rugby history.
Jones will soon announce the Wallabies’ lineup for the match against France on Friday. The last encounter between Australia and France, under the coaching of Dave Rennie, ended in a heartbreaking 30-29 defeat for the Wallabies in Paris back in November.
As the Rugby World Cup approaches, the assistance of Steve Hansen, renowned for his coaching prowess, will undoubtedly prove invaluable to the Wallabies as they strive to make their mark in the tournament. The collaboration between Jones and Hansen promises to bring fresh insights and strategies, thereby elevating Australia’s competitive edge on the global rugby stage.
