The Crusaders have confirmed the appointment of their new head coach from 2027.
Former All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen will replace Rob Penney, who will step down after completing three seasons in charge of the Christchurch-based club.
Penney guided the Crusaders to the 2025 Super Rugby title and will remain in charge through the 2026 playoffs before departing.
“It’s been an honour of a lifetime to be the head coach of the Crusaders, but the time is right for me to step away from the role after three seasons,” Penney said.
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Hansen is no stranger to the Crusaders set-up. The former scrumhalf played for the club during their inaugural 1996 campaign before returning as an assistant coach between 2020 and 2023.
He later joined the All Blacks coaching staff alongside former Crusaders boss Scott Robertson in 2024.
But Hansen exited the national set-up earlier this year after new All Blacks coach Dave Rennie assembled his own management team.
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Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge praised Hansen’s rugby intelligence and leadership qualities, saying he would uphold the club’s famously high standards.
“This is my home,” Hansen said. “I’m very proud to be given the opportunity to serve the Crusaders and the people of this region again.”
Photo: Dan Mullan Getty Images
