Rugby: Henry steps up for next World Cup

All Blacks coach Graham Henry is keen to continue through to the World Cup. Photo / Richard Robinson

If Graham Henry is confirmed as the All Blacks coach for the next World Cup, he will go close to leading the side in 100 internationals.

Henry revealed his ambition yesterday to continue in his job once his contract concludes at the end of this year.

He had consistently refused to be drawn on his coaching future after last year's Grand Slam success, but in a wide-ranging discussion finally opened up on his ambition.

"It's not my decision," he said on his chances. "I'd like to continue, but that's other people's decisions. Let's wait and see, I guess.

"I'm sure the NZRU has given it some thought, but it's early days, isn't it? I guess those things take a wee bit of time to get through the system."

Henry has coached the All Blacks to 55 victories in 63 tests and when the All Black itinerary is eventually signed off for this season, is likely to take the side into international battle a further 14 times this season.

After some blistering debate and controversy, Henry was reappointed All Black coach on a two-year deal after the side was beaten in the 2007 tournament quarter-final by France. It was felt Henry might hand over command after that term but yesterday he indicated his intention to stay at the helm until 2011.

The All Blacks' opening test is on June 13 in Dunedin against France.

Henry said he, Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith had probably picked 80 per cent of their opening squad of 26 players and would be watching intently their candidates to fill the remaining places in the last few rounds of the Super 14.

He was encouraged by the form of five-eighths Stephen Donald and Ma'a Nonu and content, that when he qualified, the returning Luke McAlister would add to that calibre. Henry said he had also been very satisfied by the form of a number of new All Blacks who went on tour last year and had pushed on in this Super 14 series.

The greatest selection congestion was probably at halfback where there were five candidates - Jimmy Cowan, Andy Ellis, Alby Mathewson, Piri Weepu and Brendon Leonard - who had been All Blacks. The Blues' Taniela Moa also travelled to South Africa last year as cover but did not strip for action.

Weepu had not had a great deal of work this season at halfback because of injury and filling in as five-eighths for the Hurricanes but he had played "exceptionally well" last year for the All Blacks and those things would count.

Franchises had to do what was best for them, Henry said.

"There is some incredible depth at halfback."

Henry said he was looking for some quality backup to captain Richie McCaw at openside flanker and there were a number of players developing there and in other roles.