Scott Robertson: Crusaders boss refocuses after ‘tricky’ off-season

Crusaders boss Scott Robertson is looking to lead his side to more Super Rugby success after seeing his dreams of becoming head coach of the All Blacks dashed once again.

Following New Zealand’s abysmal form earlier this year, which saw them succumb 2-1 to Ireland and start the Rugby Championship with a defeat to South Africa, Ian Foster was on the brink of being replaced.

Robertson was, according to reports, in line to take over should the national team have lost their second match against the Springboks, but they produced an excellent display to claim a 35-23 triumph.

Foster was then backed by the governing body and his team would go on to win the title.

Departure of Jason Ryan

To make matters slightly more frustrating for the 48-year-old, Robertson also saw a key member of his Crusaders coaching staff depart.

Forwards guru Jason Ryan left the Christchurch outfit to join the All Blacks’ backroom team in late July and has been cited as a key reason for the national side’s improvement.

“Yeah, it was tricky,” he told Stuff.

“Look, from a personal point of view, how do I put it? It’s been a pretty reflective time. There’s a lot going on, a lot of stuff out of my control and stuff I can’t influence.

“I have those conversations with players. Now, I’ve got to have a conversation with myself.”

Despite the disappointment of seeing Ryan depart, Robertson stated that he was “proud” of the former Crusaders forwards coach.

“Jase is a great mate, a good man. We had a good catch up and a cuddle. I’m really proud of him, I’m really proud that he’s gone on,” he said.

“My role as a leader is to influence people into great opportunities and help them along the way, and that’s what he’s done. He’s done a fine job with them.”

Focus on the Crusaders

Robertson is contracted to NZR and the Crusaders until the end of 2024 but the conclusion of the World Cup will no doubt begin a race for his services.

Should New Zealand fail, he is likely to take over from Foster, but if the governing body decides not to make a change at the top then he will almost certainly leave the country.

Robertson has even intimated that he is bound for a new job after the global tournament in France by describing 2023 as “my last year.”

“My focus now turns to the Crusaders, which it always has been, but probably more so going into my last year,” he said.

“Just get my energy right, get the focus I’ve had the other six years. Get better myself, so I can help the team be better.”

READ MORE: Sam Whitelock rejoins the All Blacks squad in Japan after recovering from ear issue