Crusaders coach Robertson signs on for two more seasons

Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has agreed a new deal with the Super Rugby champions through the next two seasons.

Robertson has been in charge of the side since the 2017 campaign and has led the team to back-to-back titles.

The former New Zealand international had been considered as one of the favourites to replace All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, who will step down after this year’s Rugby World Cup.

But Robertson, who won 23 caps for his country, has put a question mark over that possibility by committing his immediate future to the Crusaders.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead a group of incredible players, alongside a coaching staff and management group who are passionate about what we do and the organisation we represent,” Robertson said.

“My family and I are really settled here and when my wife Jane and I talked about it, this is ultimately where we wanted to be. 

“I had already signalled my commitment to New Zealand Rugby and this 2019 campaign with the Crusaders, but this announcement ensures I can now focus on the task at hand and move forward with certainty around my coaching future.

“It’s a huge honour to lead this team and I’m thankful for the support I have been shown by New Zealand Rugby, the Crusaders board and the team, in extending my time with the club.”

BREAKING NEWS:  Razor is in until 2021  To celebrate we have Razor’s Red Zone at our first game this weekend! Visit https://t.co/Yd8xaF8BgC for the full story  #likenoother #crusadeon 

— BNZ Crusaders (@crusadersrugby) February 17, 2019

Robertson, who won three straight Super Rugby titles and four overall during his playing days with the Crusaders, coached New Zealand’s Under-20 side to World Championship glory in 2015.

The 44-year-old became the first man to win a Super Rugby as a player and coach, and his side beat the Blues 24-22 in their season opener on Saturday.

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