A new candidate has emerged for the soon-to-be-vacant All Blacks coaching role.
John Plumtree has told Newshub he's considering putting his name forward to replace Steve Hansen after next year's World Cup.
But the new Hurricanes boss believes his best chance of a national call-up could come alongside a leading contender.
The 53-year-old assisted Joe Schmidt as Ireland's forwards coach in 2013 - the two would firm as favourites, if they decide to link up again.
Plumtree also ticks off the experience box, having coached in Wales, South Africa and Japan.
"Being part of the All Blacks management is something I've always wanted to do and now I'm running out of time, so I better get into it," Plumtree told Newshub.
"I would really love to stay in New Zealand and finish my coaching, and I've done the overseas thing a lot.
"So I'm going to work as hard as I can to be a professional rugby coach in this country for as long as I can."
That journey starts with the 2019 Super Rugby season with the Hurricanes, but could that be a stepping stone to the All Blacks?
"Timing is everything in coaching, whether the time is right now to have a go, or whether it's better to wait and do some time at the Hurricanes is best."
Plumtree joins Crusaders coach Scott Robertson as potential candidates, alongside current assistant Ian Foster.
Ireland's Schmidt had indicated he wanted to step away from coaching after the World Cup, but just last week said "never say never" in regards to the national job.
Newshub.
