Incoming All Blacks coach Scott Robertson admits he might have to change his ways from what's made him successful with the Crusaders.
From November 1, Robertson is now officially head coach of the All Blacks, succeeding Ian Foster in charge of the national side. He enters the role as arguably the most-anticipated national coaching appointment so far.
Since taking charge of the Crusaders in 2016, 49-year-old Robertson has won a Super Rugby crown every year, lifting the title seven times across three competition formats, but even with so much success already under his belt, he isn't completely set in his ways.
In fact, Robertson concedes he might just have to do things differently, as he prepares to open his account against England midway through 2024.
"You've got your models, you've got your structures and you coach the best team in front of you," Robertson told AM.
"I've got the way I coach, you don't change yourself as a person, but you might change a few things around your models.
"Test matches are different, they're played a little bit differently. You've got to bring people together pretty quickly, and create a strong narrative and connection.
"That's the stuff I love - get a story going that connects us. I'm looking forward to it."
But after striving his whole career to reach this point, Robertson's work is only just beginning.
After this year's Rugby World Cup in France, the All Blacks have lost some of the greatest players to have worn the black jersey.
Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Brodie Retallick, Dane Coles and Richie Mo'unga make up a stellar cast of those not returning next season, taking up contracts to play offshore.
As the All Blacks begin their four-year cycle towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, more change among the playing group is almost certain, but Robertson welcomes that change and now has his pick of the next generation off the New Zealand rugby production line.
"You can never replace experience, but you can replace that with talent and coach them, and give them opportunities to perform," he said. "That's the art of coaching."
As 2023 trickles to an end, Robertson's first assignment will be to finalise those around him, as he begins his All Blacks tenure.
While Jason Ryan, Leon MacDonald, Jason Holland and Scott Hansen have already been confirmed as assistant coaches, plenty of roles remain to be filled, as the curtain comes down on the Foster era.
Catch the full interview with Scott Robertson on AM at 7:20 Friday, where Scott Robertson talks rugby and gut health - an issue close to his heart following the death of a good mate
