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New Zealand Rugby acknowledges a shift in coaching dynamics, with former Scotland scrum-half Mike Blair joining Dave Rennie’s All Blacks staff. Ex-Maori All Blacks lock Joe Wheeler highlights this move as a significant concession, signaling that NZR recognizes top coaching talent exists beyond its borders. Blair, with an impressive coaching resume since retiring in 2016, previously worked with Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh before reuniting with Rennie in Japan. Alongside Blair, All Blacks legend Tana Umaga and seasoned forwards coach Neil Barnes join the coaching team, while Jason Ryan stays on under Rennie. Wheeler emphasizes Blair's expertise in breaking down northern hemisphere defenses, but notes the challenge of implementing his strategies quickly. Former All Blacks fly-half Lima Sopoaga expresses confidence in Blair’s ability to rise to the occasion as they prepare for upcoming tests. The All Blacks are set for a new era under this revamped coaching lineup.
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