The All Blacks brains trust faces a major shake-up next season, with the addition of former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt.
NZ Rugby has confirmed Schmidt will join the selection panel as an "independent selector", replacing All Blacks legend Grant Fox, who will step down after next year's July test window.
The changes come after a season that ended in disappointment for the All Blacks, with consecutive losses to Ireland and France.
Those results and a run of unconvincing performances have put pressure on coach Ian Foster, but Schmidt's addition could loosen the valve on the underfire coach.
Schmidt, 56, led Ireland to the top of World Rugby's rankings in 2019 and the first two test victories over the All Blacks in the country's history.
"It's humbling to be involved, and I'm looking forward to learning more about the players and the All Blacks environment, and helping out as best I can," says Schmidt.
Under Schmidt, Ireland also won three Six Nations crowns and a European Grand Slam in 2018.
The former Bay of Plenty coach had a successful stint at Irish club Leinster, winning two European Cups.
"Joe will bring a wealth of New Zealand and international experience into the role, so we are delighted to have him join us," says Foster.
"He will work closely with me and [assistant coach John Plumtree] on selections, but his insights will be valuable in other areas as well, so we look forward to having him join us."
Confirmation of Schmidt's new role comes just a month after he was appointed to a 'part-time' coaching role at the Blues, under Leon MacDonald.
Foster says Fox had planned to leave his role as independent selector after the 2019 Rugby World Cup, but he's delighted to have been able to convince him to stay until early next year.
"Foxy has been huge for me personally and for the team as a whole, and we were so grateful to have him involved for longer than expected," Foster adds.
"He says now is the time for him to fully focus on his family and business interests. We will farewell him closer to the time, when he finishes up next year."
Ironically, the All Blacks’ first 2022 opponents are Ireland, who hope to create their own history downunder, winning a test against New Zealand in New Zealand for the first time.
A review into the All Blacks 2021 campaign is underway, but the findings won't be known until early next year and Foster is already contracted for the 2023 World Cup.
Schmidt's appointment should signal a welcoming of fresh ideas from one of the best minds in the sport.
