Hurricanes coach Jason Holland has confirmed he's been in discussions with Scott Robertson about potentially joining him on the All Blacks coaching staff.
Alongside Blues coach Leon MacDonald, Holland has been widely tipped to join forces with Robertson, when the Crusaders coach takes the reins from Ian Foster after the upcoming World Cup.
Late last month, Holland poured cold water on such suggestions, insisting he hadn't heard from Robertson for a "couple of months".
But speaking on Thursday, the 50-year-old clarified he'd since been in contact with the All Blacks coaching-in-waiting regarding a role in his coaching group.
"We've had some conversations but that's about as far as it's gone at the moment," Holland said.
Holland coached alongside Robertson at both Canterbury at National Provincial Championship level and the New Zealand U20s.
"I'd love it," Holland said of the prospect of joining the All Blacks staff.
"The All Blacks is the pinnacle for a young fulla who grew up in New Zealand and loves playing footy. It is the pinnacle and, at the same time, I love being here.
"It's exciting times."
Holland admits if he were to accept an All Blacks role, he'd almost certainly have to part ways with the Hurricanes. His contract with the franchise expires at the end of this season.
"I don't think it's possible [to do both roles] probably but we haven't had enough conversations to figure that out," he noted.
Since Robertson's impending gig with the All Blacks was announced, speculation has been rife regarding who will join him in the booth.
MacDonald and Crusaders assistant Scott Hansen are among the other candidates expected to join Robertson's staff.
Over the past few weeks,both have dodged questions on the matter, although but anyone remotely competent at reading between lines could conclude they're close to a lock to accept the roles.
Holland admits it would be beneficial for all involved - particularly the Hurricanes, who may need to search for a new coach - if the process could be expedited.
"Obviously with these sorts of things you want it put to bed as quick as possible and I think everyone is making every effort to do that," he said.
"Just as much for us at the Canes as to make sure it's done and dusted, so that everyone can get on with what they're doing."
Holland and MacDonald's potential departure - in addition to Robertson's with the Crusaders - would mean a head coaching overhaul across Super Rugby, with three of the five franchises poised to be on the market for a new head coach.
But he dismissed any suggestion such a scenario would be "unhealthy" for NZ Rugby. In fact, he believes quite the opposite to be true.
"I think it is healthy," he noted.
"If you work your way through things and you get to the point where you get an opportunity with the All Blacks, there's always going to be guys coming in behind that.
"I wouldn't get too carried away with that."
