Scott Robertson has recommitted to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Crusaders, ending speculation about his coaching future.
Photo: Photosport Ltd 2021
Robertson has announced he will coach the Crusaders through to the end of the 2024 season.
The former All Blacks flanker has led the Crusaders to five straight Super Rugby titles in his five seasons as head coach, with a record of 71 wins, four draws and just nine defeats.
Robertson had expressed a desire to get international coaching experience after missing out on the All Blacks' top job to Ian Foster.
"I love this team, and I'm proud of what we've been able to achieve on and off the field over the past five seasons, for the people of the Crusaders region," Robertson said.
"The opportunity to continue to lead a world-class coaching group, in a club where everyone is really connected - from the board, through to staff and the team on the field - is truly special.
"The Crusaders have helped me grow so much as a coach and a person, and I value the relationship I have with our playing group, they challenge me every day. The best is yet to come from this team, so I'm excited to confirm my coaching future in New Zealand."
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson celebrates a fifth Super Rugby title with captain Scott Barrett. Photo: Photosport Ltd 2021
Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge feels "lucky to have Razor re-commit to the club".
"Not only does he have special skill around storytelling and bringing a vision and values to life, but he also has exceptional technical skills as a coach that truly set him apart," Mansbridge said.
"Razor's enthusiasm and eternal optimism is infectious and permeates our whole organisation, so we are thrilled with today's announcement. I know that fans across the Crusaders region will also be pleased to see such a popular coach continue to lead this team as he has done so successfully for the past five seasons."
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said Robertson's coaching record spoke for itself.
"We are fortunate to have the quality of coaches we do in New Zealand and Scott is someone who has added, and will continue to add, an enormous amount to the players and teams he's involved with," Robinson said.
Scott Robertson performs his 'Razor dance' after the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa final. Photo: Photosport Ltd 2021
"His record has been exceptional at every level he has coached, including with the New Zealand Under 20s, and we are thrilled he will continue to play a major role in developing our players on and off the field for the next three seasons.
"It's testament to Razor's commitment and passion for New Zealand rugby and the Crusaders that he has decided to continue his career on home soil, and we look forward to his continued contribution."
Robertson assisted the Canterbury provincial team to five successive National Provinicial Championship (NPC) titles between 2008 and 2012. From 2013-2016 he was head coach of the side, guiding them to three NPC Premiership titles.
He has also enjoyed success as head coach of the New Zealand Under 20 team, claiming victory at the 2015 Under 20 World Championship.