Super Rugby: Scott Robertson’s last dance
Scott Robertson’s final stand. It is the all-encompassing shadow that looms over Super Rugby Pacific’s second season. Six titles in six years. In his last dance with the Crusaders, can Robertson conjure another championship? And where does he go next?
Six months on from his ninth knee operation, this time a full titanium replacement in a nod to his playing days, Robertson’s notorious breakdancing may need to be scaled back. His mind, though, remains razor sharp as he contemplates pressing challenges and distractions.
Far from deflect his impending swansong Robertson embraces the added significance this season holds. After a playing career that graduated from Mt Maunganui to Christchurch to 24 tests as an All Blacks loose forward, Robertson enters the culmination of his 15th coaching campaign in red and black country. That’s some stint.
Before tackling his final season at the helm Robertson took time out to search within for the inspiration required for another title tilt.
“I’ve reflected a little bit because I want to make sure I’ve got everything I need from myself to help the team reach their best,” Robertson tells the Herald.
“I’ve been driving into Rugby Park for 24 years. It means a lot to me. From playing and coaching Canterbury for nine years and this is my seventh year as a coach with the Crusaders so it’s a big portion of your life.
“I still love it as much as the first day. The big thing is making sure I get the energy piece right to come in really clear and focused and to help this Crusaders team be better so we can keep raising our game. As a head coach that’s my primary role.”
Robertson, three wins off matching Robbie Deans’ franchise win record, is not alone in farewelling the Crusaders this year.
Highly influential playmaker Richie Mo’unga has signed a threeyear deal in Japan and Sam Whitelock, who is on track to surpass Richie Mccaw and finish this year as the most capped All Black of all time, will be among the widely respected senior figures calling time.
Those imminent departures should deepen the desire to continue their collective dominance.
“It’s a natural four-year cycle around the World Cup when a lot of guys will make decisions about their careers,” Robertson said. “We learnt a lot through 2019. We confronted it and made it really clear what we needed from each other and the team.
“It’s about how you’re going to be remembered this year and what does that look like to perform so they go out with a clear focus.”
With New Zealand Rugby intending to appoint the next All Blacks coach pre-world Cup Robertson will soon be tasked with contesting his dream job for a second time in the midst of managing a Super Rugby season. “I’ve learnt over the last few years to deal with any decisions or opportunities at the time. I’m experienced enough and been in this game that I know what you’re currently doing is the most important thing. I’m always looking two, three, weeks ahead to make sure we can win today but will always be a step ahead.”
If there’s one nagging doubt about the Crusaders in 2023, it comes in the form of Jason Ryan’s departure to the All Blacks.
Andrew Goodman’s departure to Munster creates further coaching changes, with former Hurricanes and Tasman utility James Marshall assuming guidance of the backline alongside Tamati Ellison and Scott Hansen.
Navigate those coaching voids, and Robertson’s last dance will be short odds to further enhance his legacy.