March 24: New Zealand coach Dave Rennie has replaced most of Scott Robertson's assistants, naming former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga as defense coach and Neil Barnes as his lone senior assistant.
Rennie also appointed Mike Blair to lead the attack and retained forwards coach Jason Ryan. Scott Hansen, Tamati Ellison, and Bryn Evans were let go.
"Neil provides outstanding leadership and strategic support; Jase has proven himself as one of the best forwards coaches in the game," Rennie said.
Tana brings immense 'mana' and defensive insight, while Mike will bring his innovative approach and attention to detail to our attack.
Ellison will take over the Maori All Blacks. Rennie also brought in Phil Healey as head of performance.
Rennie, the first New Zealand head coach with Pacific islander heritage, will see out Kobe's season in Japan before preparing the All Blacks for the inaugural Nations Championship tests in July against France, Italy, and Ireland.