Graham Henry has been reappointed as head coach of New Zealand after being forced to reapply for the job following a poor World Cup. New Zealand have won 42 out of 48 matches under Henry, however although they were favourites to lift this year’s World Cup they lost to France in the quarter-finals. The New Zealand Rugby Union handed the 61-year-old a two-year deal after he got the nod ahead of Colin Cooper, Robbie Deans and Ian Foster. This does not mean he will automatically be in place until the next World Cup in 2011.
But the NZRU said he was still the best man for the job. “Graham’s record, both on and off the field, is among the best in All Blacks rugby history and he has set a very high standard in coaching, player management, and integration with the wider New Zealand rugby community. He has given a lot in a successful period for our game and the Board is convinced he has more to give the All Blacks and New Zealand rugby.”” said acting NZRU chairman Mike Eagle.