The All Blacks' 2025 season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, leaving fans and critics alike scratching their heads. 'Consistently inconsistent' is the phrase that perfectly encapsulates their journey, but what does this mean for their future, especially with the 2027 World Cup looming? Here’s a deep dive into their year, the controversies, and the burning questions that demand answers.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the season started with a thrilling victory over France in Dunedin and ended with a commanding win against Wales in Cardiff, the journey in between was anything but smooth. Yes, there were standout performances—like the hard-fought wins over South Africa at Eden Park and Ireland in Chicago—but these were overshadowed by alarming collapses, such as the humiliating defeat to the Springboks in Wellington and the first loss to England at Twickenham since 2012. Is this the new normal for the All Blacks, or can they reclaim their dominance?
Scott Robertson, in his second year as head coach, faced more than just on-field challenges. The departure of assistant coach Jason Holland, following Leon MacDonald’s exit the previous year, has raised questions about the stability of the coaching setup. With a 10-3 win-loss record in 2025, compared to 10-4 in his debut year, Robertson’s tenure is under scrutiny. Are the All Blacks losing their edge, or is this just a temporary setback?
And this is the part most people miss... The recurring issues of leaky transition defense, poor discipline, and an unreliable aerial game have become glaring weaknesses. The team’s inability to address these flaws consistently has left fans wondering if the coaching staff is up to the task. The upcoming review, led by former NZ Rugby high-performance head Don Tricker, is expected to be a turning point. But will it be enough to prepare the All Blacks for the daunting challenges ahead, including the four-Test series against the Springboks in 2026 and the World Cup in Australia?
Player selections have also sparked debate. Anton Lienert-Brown, despite limited game time, is heading to Kobe Steelers on sabbatical, while Rieko Ioane, once a staple on the left wing, found himself benched after the Eden Park victory over the Boks. Is this a sign of a team in transition, or are the selectors losing touch with their best talents?
On a brighter note, players like Ardie Savea continue to shine. Savea’s influence on the field is undeniable, yet his omission from World Rugby’s Player of the Year shortlist remains a head-scratcher. Meanwhile, newcomers like Fabian Holland and Leicester Fainga’anuku have injected fresh energy into the squad. Holland, the Dutch-born lock, impressed with his debut against France, while Fainga’anuku’s power and offloading ability have made him a fan favorite.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Can the All Blacks fix their inconsistencies in time for the World Cup? The 2025 season has exposed vulnerabilities that their rivals will undoubtedly exploit. The Springboks, in particular, have shown they have the All Blacks’ number, and England’s resurgence under Steve Borthwick cannot be ignored. Is Robertson the right man to lead this team, or do the All Blacks need a radical overhaul?
As the review unfolds, one thing is clear: the All Blacks are at a crossroads. Their legacy as one of rugby’s greatest teams is on the line, and the decisions made in the coming months will shape their future. What do you think? Are the All Blacks still a force to be reckoned with, or is their era of dominance coming to an end? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
