Darren Shand set to leave All Blacks after 20 years

All Blacks Manager Darren Shand has announced he will be leaving the team after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

The highly regarded member of the All Blacks management group has enjoyed a long career spanning four Rugby World Cups. During that time he was part of what is described as a golden era - when the All Blacks won back-to-back tournaments in 2011 and 2015, and were the top-ranked team in the world for a decade.

Shand took on the job in 2004 with Sir Graham Henry after four years with the Crusaders. His role involves leading all team operations and managing the New Zealand Rugby (NZR) business objectives as they relate to the team.

"The time is right for me to take on my next challenge,” said Shand. “I absolutely love what I do and have witnessed the All Blacks grow into a huge operation which is global in brand and scale, and a massive machine.

“The skills I have learned over my 19 years are invaluable. My final tour as manager will be this year’s Rugby Championship and then ultimately the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. It will be a very special way to finish up my time. I have made rich connections with many people over the years.”

All Blacks coach Ian Foster added: “Darren has been an integral member of the All Blacks management group over many years. He has made a big contribution in leading the team operations group. He is responsible for many areas behind the scenes that are really important to moving the team around the world and making sure we get to match day in the best possible shape.”