While the question of who replaces current All Blacks coach Steve Hansen remains up in the air, so too does the coaching future of Scott Robertson.
The 44-year-old admits dreams of reaching the ultimate milestone of coaching the 'Men in Black', but the two-time Super Rugby-winning Crusaders mentor is more than ready to pack his bags for opportunities off-shore.
Speaking to Newshub from the sleepy seaside suburb of Sumner in Christchurch, where his coaching journey began, Robertson reflected on how quickly he had advanced through the ranks.
"If you would've said nine years ago, when I was coaching Sumner, fast forward to winning back-to-back championships with the Crusaders, I probably wouldn't have said it was in the plan," he said.
Robertson has been a part of seven Mitre 10 Cup championships with Canterbury, coached the 'Baby Blacks' to an U20 World Cup title, plus two straight Super Rugby crowns at the helm of the red-and-blacks.
So does 'Razor' feel any excess pressure, heading into a season that could provide the Crusaders with a second franchise three-peat?
"Look, you can look at the pressure potentially, but for me personally, it's just a great opportunity."
The back to back Crusaders titles were masterminded by a breakdancing coach who does things very differently.
This new dynasty is built on Robertson's trademark culture.
"My job is to create an environment where the boys just love coming in - we have fun, we work and train hard - and when you get that together, it's pretty powerful and enjoyable."
Robertson has expressed his desire to have a crack at Steven Hansen's All Blacks job after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
But with Robertson, you should always expect the unexpected.
"I've got some stuff I want to finish off with the Crusaders first, but I would also love to coach overseas, to go to another environment, and test yourself and your philosophy - that would be a really great challenge."
He'd be following a trail blazed by a quartet of Canterbury coaches, whom Robertson leaned on as mentors during his rise through the ranks.
"As a coach, I had Robbie Deans, Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen - so three of the best - and then I also had a great mentor in Rob Penny
"I talk to Robbie Deans regularly, if I've got anything to mull over.
Robertson's destination of choice - potentially back to where he once utilised his playing talents.
"To coach in France is a dream of mine. I played there for a reason - so I could learn the language and learn the culture and the way they do things."
For now, Robertson will continue to ride the wave back home and hopes he can be as successful with his All Blacks coaching ambitions as he has during his time in charge of the Crusaders.
Newshub.
