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Henry defies history to remain All Blacks coach

Graham Henry defied history yesterday when he was reappointed as All Blacks coach despite holding the reins during the team's worst ever World Cup performance this year.

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has traditionally been an unforgiving employer and no previous coach has survived a failed World Cup campaign.

All Blacks fans reacted with shock in October when the world's top-ranked team lost 20-18 to France in their first ever quarter-final exit from the World Cup.

But acting NZRU chairman Mike Eagle said Henry, 61, who has won 42 Tests and lost just six since being appointed four years ago, was the best of four candidates interviewed on Thursday.

"Graham's record, both on and off the field, is among the best in All Blacks rugby history," Eagle said. "It was disappointing to lose the quarter-final, but overall they've done a magnificent job."

He said the NZRU was convinced the gruff former school master and his assistant coaches Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith had a lot more to contribute to the All Blacks.

Henry said he was grateful and relieved to be given his third two-year contract.

"I've got the hunger, the desire -- I'm excited about the opportunity and I've got the support of the people who really matter," he told a press conference.

Although most rugby commentators had supported successful Canterbury Crusaders coach Robbie Deans, polls suggested Henry had the support of most of the public.

In rugby-mad New Zealand, the coaching appointment has hogged the headlines in the lead up to yesterday's decision.

"I think the New Zealand public have been quite amazing," Henry said. "They've gone out of their way to make sure that I've known that they are supportive."

In the first sign that he recognized some of his previous strategies may have been flawed, Henry admitted withdrawing 22 leading All Blacks from the first half of this year's Super 14 series was a bad move.

"Certainly it caused a lot of problems. I think in hindsight, that was a mistake," he said.

But he added it remained important that players get sufficient time to rest and recondition in an increasingly crowded calendar.

He wants the All Blacks to stay faithful to their expansive style of play, despite a resurgence in the northern hemisphere of a game dominated by set pieces and kicking.

"I think our rugby players are skillful, they're explosive, they enjoy playing an attacking style of rugby," he said.
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