Rennie ‘committed’ to Wallabies
New Wallabies coach Dave Rennie has reaffirmed his commitment to the role despite ‘‘disappointment’’ over the departure of chief executive Raelene Castle.
Rennie is due to become the latest Kiwi coach to take the Wallabies reins once he finishes his commitments with the Glasgow Warriors in Scotland amid the uncertain sporting landscape cast by the Covid-19 global pandemic.
However, following the forced resignation of fellow Kiwi Castle, on the back of a concerted attack from 11 former Wallabies captains who demanded change at the top , there had been speculation that Rennie might have second thoughts about the job.
One report claimed that Rennie would reconsider his future plans should Castle be forced out of her job.
The Kiwi chief executive had played a major role in signing Rennie, the highly successful
Chiefs coach, for the top job and the two had formed a strong relationship through the process.
But Rennie has told reporters in Scotland, where he is awaiting the potential resumption of the northern rugby season, that despite being disappointed by the ousting of Castle he remained motivated to make his move into the international arena.
‘‘I am really gutted at the decision to move Raelene on,’’ Rennie said. ‘‘She is a big part of the reason I signed with Australia. I was really impressed by her. She had a real clean plan over what the next few years looked like.
‘‘I am really disappointed. But she exited with dignity and class. I am disappointed with the decision but clearly I want a chat with the board and get clarity over what the plan looks like now. I am still very committed and we have been doing a lot of work in and around preparation for when the new season comes around.’’
Rennie said the lines of communication remained strong with key people in Australian rugby, including former Scotland Rugby Union director of rugby Scott Johnson who now runs the high performance programme for Australian Rugby.