The former All Blacks coach on why rolling mauls should be banned, the 2023 World Cup and what he has learned from coaching women
At 76, Sir Graham Henry says the final whistle has now sounded. One of the most decorated coaches in rugby history has hung up his tracksuit and is heading into the retirement sunset on the idyllic Waiheke Island. His last hurrah was last Saturday’s women’s World Cup final across the bay in Auckland where, as a consultant with the Black Ferns, he duly signed off with another momentous victory.
If it feels like the end of an era that is exactly what it is. Henry coached the All Blacks to 88 wins in 103 Tests – his record against England read played nine, won nine – and guided them to the 2011 World Cup title. He was World Coach of the Year five times and also coached Wales and the British & Irish Lions. If anyone is qualified to discuss the health – or otherwise – of modern rugby union he is very much the man.
Written by Robert Kitson
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2022/nov/16/graham-henry-black-ferns-all-blacks-new-zealand-rugby under the title “Graham Henry: ‘What I like about the Black Ferns is they’re so passionate about the game’”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
