Normally, it would be tempting fate to reappoint an All Black coach for two years beyond the next World Cup. The knee-jerk response to an early exit from that event is always a clamour for the coach's head.
In the case of Steve Hansen, however, there can be no quibbles. Such is a consequence of the record that he has fashioned in his time at the helm.
Only twice during Hansen's tenure have the All Blacks been defeated. His cultivation of an attractive style of play and a successful team culture has raised hopes of them becoming the first to win back-to-back World Cups. In the process, he has been routinely named New Zealand and world rugby coach of the year. That record justifies the first appointment of an All Black coach beyond a World Cup cycle.
So, too, does the task that will confront Hansen whatever happens at the World Cup. A senior group of All Blacks have not signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union beyond the end of next year. Dan Carter confirmed this week that he will be off to French club Racing Metro, and most of the likes of Richie McCaw, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Keven Mealamu will follow him overseas.
