Whitney Hansen’s selection as the next head coach of the Black Ferns is a huge gain for women’s rugby.
She becomes the only women to run a top-10 nation in the world. This is the best possible statement of intent NZR could make, as it attempts to make up for past shortcomings.
In rugby terms Hansen comes from royal Kiwi stock, the daughter of Sir Steve Hansen, head coach of the All Blacks 2012-19. But heredity does not mean doors open automatically.
Hansen was overlooked as the union sought a replacement for Glenn Moore in 2022. Even here she faced strong competition from men such as Willie Walker, Tony Christie and Blair Baxter.
I’ve never believed in great players making great coaches, rather the reverse. Hansen didn’t become a Black Fern, but she was a prominent player for Canterbury. She stood out as a thinker and strategist of the game, so coaching was the obvious way forward. She is young enough to stay in position for a decade or three.
She will need to take care over her coaching staff. All the men she invites on board must be willing to accept her final verdict.
The Outlook
She takes over as the new WXV Global Series comes into view. Yes, there is a current hiatus, long enough for some BFs to seek their fortune overseas. But they will be back in time for the Pacific Four Series and WXV. That means no fewer than eleven tests. Then there’s a Lions tour to salivate over.
It is her good fortune that she can organise a four-year long rebuilding programme, to ensure the Black Ferns regain their former eminence. But recent results show the distance to be made up.
One fascinating side-issue will be her attitude to 7s. It forms a central part of the NZ landscape. But can the BFs really expect to regain control of the Olympic 7s title and a seventh RWC trophy?
That will prove an ongoing dilemma. Supporters don’t mind which format is on offer, so long as black shirts win.
Can Hansen build a side capable of holding off Canada; France and England? It’s a big ask.
Side-note
Hansen is given the same limited time-scale asFrançois Ratier in France, just two years. At least in Ratier’s case, he can enjoy a further two if his school reports justify them.
This time-limit is all too redolent of modern-day football. The team loses – “sack the boss!” People in charge need elbow-room and patience to achieve their ends. Is the selection panel not totally convinced of its judgement?
By the way, the panel of five contained only one woman. Some things never change.
