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'They can't get it wrong' – Aaron Mauger confident in All Blacks coaching candidates

November 13, 2019

A number of big names are vying to replace Steve Hansen, but the Highlanders coach isn't one of them.

Whoever the All Blacks choose as the man to replace Steve Hansen will be a success, according to Highlanders coach Aaron Mauger.

With Hansen standing aside from his long-held position of All Blacks coach, a total of 26 candidates have been approached by New Zealand Rugby to put their names forward in one role or another.

Names such as Hansen's assistant Ian Foster, Crusaders coach Scott Robertson, Japan's Jamie Joseph and former Chiefs boss Dave Rennie are all considered to be among the favourites for the job.

Speaking to 1 NEWS at this morning's 2020 Super Rugby season launch, Mauger hailed all the contenders vying for the role, a statement on the depth of coaching within New Zealand.

"That's the quality of New Zealand Rugby," Mauger said.

"A lot of time goes into developing coaches, we've got a great structure for coaches to coach in, and a lot of support around that.

"It's exciting isn't it? They can't really get it wrong.

"There's some quality candidates there, there's obviously the continuity option with Fozzie [Foster] and the team that's been there over a long period, or some fresh voices, proven guys that are doing some wonderful things as well."

Mauger, along with the other coaches of the New Zealand Super Rugby sides were all approached by NZR to put themselves forward for the All Blacks' job, however the Highlanders boss says he's content right where he is - for now.

"For me, it's not the right time at all. I'm really focussed on the Highlanders.

"That's where our vision and focus is going at the moment. For me, my job is to lead that and do the best job possible, and set our team up to be at their best."

Outgoing New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew says that a decision on Hansen's replacement will likely be made before Christmas.

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