All Blacks coach Scott Robertson believes Rugby Australia has found the right candidate for the job of new Wallabies boss in compatriot Joe Schmidt.
Last week, the former Ireland head coach and All Blacks assistant ended speculation by confirming he'd signed a deal to replace Eddie Jones, who left the role after a short, but nightmarish tenure at the helm.
Jones sensationally quit the role less than a year into his tenure, winning just two games in nine matches - including a historic exit from the World Cup in the group stage - before returning to Japan to reclaim the role of head coach of the 'Brave Blossoms'.
While Schmidt's appointment has been criticised by some figures within Australian rugby, Robertson is confident he's capable of rescuing the sinking Wallabies ship.
"He's got a great CV, he's a good pair of hands and is experienced, so it's good timing for Australia and him," Robertson told Stan Sport.
"There's no outs. You'll know where you need to be on the field and know what the expectations are of you.
"He's a great rugby mind. He'll be clear."
The Wallabies' Bledisloe Cup drought now stretches 20 years, with the All Blacks holding a mortgage on the annual trans-Tasman trophy.
Two of the past four defeats to the All Blacks came by fewer than three points, including the heartbreaking defeat at Melbourne in September 2022, when French referee Mathieu Raynal controversially pinged Australia first-five Bernard Foley for time wasting.
"It's been a long time since you held it up, but there's periods in games - a famous moment back here, our French friend... it can swing quite quickly," said Robertson.
"It comes down to the passion on both sides - it's really clear every time you see it played
"The importance on the night, it's really critical, doesn't matter what form."
Despite the loss of a core group of experienced All Blacks after last year's World Cup, Robertson has faith the exodus will present opportunities for others to elevate themselves to the next level, agreeing rebuilds aren't part of the All Blacks language.
"Winning becomes before development," he added. "We've got some depth coming through.
"The end of a [World Cup] cycle... somebody always steps up. We've always got a new pivot or a new player that will come through, and we've got a coaching group to set them up to succeed at the highest level."
