World Cup winner Graham Henry has announced he is to step down as coach of New Zealand.
World Cup winning coach to leave All Blacks position
World Cup winner Graham Henry has officially announced he is to step down as coach of New Zealand.
The 65-year-old guided the All Blacks to the second World Cup victory in their history just over a week ago on home soil.
The pre-tournament favourites ended their 24-year wait for success, but only after a nervy 8-7 final triumph over France in Auckland.
On the back of that success Henry was expected to call time on his tenure and did so at a press conference in Auckland on Tuesday.
"It's been an enormous privilege to coach the All Blacks and I am exceptionally proud of how the team has added to the All Blacks legacy over the last eight years, involving 103 Test matches," Henry told the media.
Exceptionally proud
"I am also exceptionally proud of how they have developed an extremely professional and enjoyable culture and environment, and how they have reached out to people of all ages and put a smile on their faces, both here in New Zealand and overseas."
Henry took over as New Zealand coach in 2004 and won 88 of his 103 Tests in charge of the national side.
"I'd just like to say thanks to the guys who have played over those eight years, those 103 Tests," he added.
"Especially thanks to Tana Umaga and Richie McCaw who were the long-term captains over that time."
The veteran coach - who has also had stints in charge of Wales and the British and Irish Lions - has recently been linked with a position in the England coaching set-up.
Mentor role
However, it appears that the New Zealand Rugby Union are hopeful of persuading him to remain with them as a mentor to their leading coaches.
In paying tribute to Henry, NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said: "He leaves the All Blacks job as one of the greatest coaches in the game.
"His record is unsurpassed and while he will now get time to spend with family and friends, and the odd bit of fishing, we are delighted that Graham is still going to be involved in New Zealand rugby.
"He has a great relationship with the country's professional coaches, as well as other coaches, and he still has so much to offer the game and it's fantastic that up-and-coming New Zealand coaches will continue to benefit from his vast knowledge."
He is expected to be succeeded by his assistant Steve Hansen as All Blacks coach.
