Despite the rugby rumour mill going into overdrive the New Zealand Rugby Union have decided to keep faith with coach Graham Henry up to and including the 2011 world cup.

Rugby World Cups

There was a strong feeling in New Zealand that the 1 – 1 draw was the final straw for Henry, following on from the defeat to France in 2007. New Zealand have long been considered the strongest rugby team in the world, but the failure to win the World Cup since they did so on home soil in 1987 has cost many an All Blacks coach his job.

But Graham Henry now gets the chance to repeat that home win in 2011, with the World Cup being hosted, controversially, by New Zealand. Controversially because many people felt the Japanese bid was the stronger one, and better for the game, but various deals meant that New Zealand were able to secure the cup.

Graham Henry also gets to keep his backroom coaching staff intact, with Steve Hansen (a fellow ex-Wales rugby coach) and Wayne Smith also having their contracts renewed.

My Opinion

Personally I think it is a good thing. Graham Henry, like any coach, has made mistakes. But always under him the Kiwi side has been powerful, adventurous and, in the main, winning. One small loss to France in a quarter final they dominated should never have been enough to get him sacked, and nor should one loss to the same team when half the All Black first team was out injured, including their two most important players.

This contract is make or break for Henry though. Win in 2011 and he will go down in kiwi folklore as a legend. Lose and he will be the man who cost them a home world cup win.

It’s a fine line he’s walking now.

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