Wallabies coach McKenzie quits after NZ defeat
McKenzie was in charge for 22 Test matches and leaves with a record of winning 11 Test matches, one draw and 10 losses.
McKenzie took charge of Australia last year in July after the Wallabies lost 1-2 to the British and Irish Lions and replaced Robbie Deans.
McKenzie has been under intense pressure in recent weeks due to turmoil in the Australian camp and his private life has also been under the spotlight.
McKenzie said that he had planned to quit regardless of the result between his Wallabies and the All Blacks.
"It's been a disappointing time for a number of reasons. I'm not going to go into the details, you guys can work it out," McKenzie told reporters.
"I've been unhappy with a bunch of things and the easiest thing for me is to exit stage left. I'll leave you guys to speculate or ponder, I'll write a chapter in my book."
The coach's departure will send Australian rugby even deeper into turmoil as they have a five match tour of Europe coming up next month and they are also in a difficult Rugby World Cup pool with hosts England and Wales.
Australian Rugby Union CEO Bill Pulver paid tribute to McKenzie who has led Australia in 22 Tests since starting in the role in August 2013.
"I did not ask Ewen to resign, but understand his decision. He informed me this morning of his intention to resign, regardless of tonight's result."
"Ewen is a world-class coach and a world-class individual who has been committed to playing entertaining Rugby for our fans since he started in the role.
"During his tenure, he has overseen a seven match winning streak, drew against the All Blacks and beat South Africa – all achievements that had not been met in the previous year.
"We sincerely wish Ewen well for the future professionally and personally."
Mr Pulver said the process to find a replacement has now begun.
"We hope to have the new Head Coach in place before the team leaves for the Spring Tour on Friday."
"Criteria for the role includes identifying a coach who can lead us to victory in next year's Rugby World Cup; represents Rugby's core values; has the support of the playing group; and is available.
"As part of this process, we will also identify structural improvements to the off-field element of the Wallabies, with a senior leadership role to be created to support the team.
"We will work with the incoming coach on that structure, with a solution to be in place as soon as possible," Pulver said.
No comments:
Post a Comment