Tana Umaga: Ireland responsible for ‘breaking down All Blacks aura’ while the ‘crack’ has since ‘got bigger’
Ireland celebrating series win over All Blacks in 2022 and former New Zealand captain Tana Umaga.
Tana Umaga believes that Ireland played a key role in “diminishing” the All Blacks aura, which has enabled other teams to follow their example.
Over the past few years, New Zealand have certainly not been as dominant as they once were, making unwanted history on several occasions since the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
That included a first home series defeat to Ireland as Andy Farrell’s men came from 1-0 down to stun the hosts.
They are now coached by Scott Robertson, who took over following the 2023 global tournament, but he has a big rebuilding job on his hands.
A frustrating Rugby Championship, which saw the All Blacks relinquish the title for the first time in four years, showed the work that Robertson must do.
Ireland currently sit atop the World Rugby rankings with the Springboks in second place, while the Kiwis are a further two points adrift in third.
‘Ranking is justified’
“They (Ireland) are a very good side and have been for a long time. Everyone talks about their poor record at World Cups but outside of those they have been so consistent over a long time. Yes, their ranking is justified,” Umaga told Prime Casino.
“We have talked about the aura of the All Blacks diminishing. Ireland has been a big part of that in breaking that down. When they first beat us and beat us in a series, they opened up the crack and others followed and the crack has just got bigger.
“That is testament to everyone who has been involved with the Irish team. Their self-belief has grown and grown.
“Once they beat us once they have just gained huge confidence. Every time you go on to the field you have to have that confidence.
“I know what that feels like as an All Black. Ireland know that even if they are behind they can win a game and can find a way.”
Success usually follows success with the All Blacks but, for the first time in a while, they may have to accept short-term pain for long-term gain.
They lost a core of genuine greats after the 2023 World Cup, which included Brodie Retallick, Sam Whitelock and Aaron Smith, and that has harmed them this year.
“The All Blacks have never before talked about rebuilding. It was always a seamless transition from teams which maintained their success. Ireland are now in that position,” Umaga said.
“It is all to do with the foundation Ireland has, how their players have developed from a young age, they know who is coming through and in which positions for years.
“They always have a succession plan in place with players. It is such a smooth transition through the levels. That alignment throughout the game is working very well. They are steps ahead of anyone else with the exception of South Africa, perhaps, and maybe France.”
Andy Farrell influence
Umaga also praised the work of Ireland’s head coach, who has built a strong side. Farrell had his critics after he took over from Joe Schmidt, with the first 18 months a struggle, but since then the team have thrived.
They may have faltered in their ultimate quest at the 2023 World Cup, but that should not detract from their other achievements since the Englishman was handed the role.
“He has really stepped up with Ireland. He is the Lions coach next summer, he knows what it takes as an elite player and coach. He’s one of the legends of rugby league. The key thing is how he handles his players,” Umaga added.
“He knows how to get the best out of them and keeps everyone aligned to his vision and goals. You have got to take your hat off to him and his backroom staff as they keep pushing Ireland forward.”
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