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'Old habits die hard' - Sir Graham Henry's advice to departing Steve Hansen

December 15, 2018

Hansen says he’d want to stay on, but will leave for the good of the team.

Legendary All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry has given some advice to successor Steve Hansen, following his announcement to vacate his post after the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

With Hansen yesterday revealing that he'll leave the All Blacks, having been with the New Zealand side since 2004, Sir Graham has been quick to offer his advice to his former assistant coach, telling him the difficulties in walking away from a job he's been involved with for such a long time.

Speaking to Newshub, Sir Graham's advice for Hansen boiled down to one word in particular, relax.

Steve Tew says Hansen is one of the best coaches rugby will ever see.

"I think it was the first All Blacks test after I left, in Christchurch, and I was sitting in the grandstand writing notes," Henry began.

"Raewyn was sitting next to me and said, 'What are you writing those notes for?', and I said, 'Well, Steve could call me at half-time'.

"Old habits die hard. You're very analytical when you watch the game and I'm sure he'll be the same.

The All Blacks coach will leave his post after next year's World Cup in Japan.

"I've learnt to relax now, so I don't write notes anymore and I enjoy the occasion."

Hansen will leave the All Blacks after next year's World Cup, where New Zealand will bid to become the first side to win three-straight titles.

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