Steve Hansen might not have to look too far for a new job after the 2019 Rugby World Cup, with one British writer suggesting the All Blacks coach could take charge of the British and Irish Lions.
Having announced on Friday that he'll stand down from his All Blacks role after next year's World Cup, speculation is rife as to Hansen's next role, with the coach himself stating he has no plans as of yet.
Writing for The Times though, John Westerby has put forward the notion of Hansen succeeding compatriot Warren Gatland in charge of the British and Irish Lions side for their 2021 tour of South Africa.
"[It's] one which would enable him to remain active towards the top of the game, to work with some of the world's leading players, without boosting the fortunes of one of the All Blacks' rivals," Westerby says.
"So why not Hansen? Working with the best of British would not require him to bring the secrets of the All Blacks' playbook to the northern hemisphere and he has plentiful knowledge of playing against the Springboks.
"The previous Lions series did not go according to plan for Hansen, a drawn series seen as a disappointing result for his All Blacks side on home soil. It would be quite some tale if he were to be more successful in the next Lions series, this time leading the side wearing red."
Another possible candidate for the Lions head coaching role would be Kiwi coach Joe Schmidt, who will leave his position in charge of Ireland after the 2019 World Cup.
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