Steve Hansen’s all-conquering reign as the New Zealand coach will end after the 2019 World Cup. The 59-year-old, who has been in charge of the All Blacks since 2012 and has had 16 years within the setup, will leave after his side’s title defence in Japan.

“I think change after the World Cup will bring a new outlook for the team and it’ll be time for someone else to enhance the legacy of the All Blacks,” he said.

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Hansen has made the decision now to give his employers the best chance to find a capable successor. “This is a critical process which shouldn’t be rushed and shouldn’t be made in the turbulent period that tends to follow a World Cup campaign,” he said.

Hansen, who led the All Blacks to a World Cup final triumph in 2015, wants to spend more time with his family.

“After being involved in the All Blacks for 16 years, I do feel it’s right for the team for me to stand down,” he said.

The former Wales coach confirmed there had been no pressure from his family to step aside. “As only people who have done the job will understand, there are not only heavy demands on yourself, but also on your family,” he said. “My family has given me unreserved love and support over the last 16 years and I feel it’s now time to make them the sole focus.

“It’s been a huge privilege to be part of the All Blacks for such a long time and I’m really looking forward to, and excited by the challenges, of the next 12 months.

“We’ll be attempting to do something that has never been done before – to win three consecutive Rugby World Cups. I’m highly motivated by that, as is the whole group, and we’re really looking forward to it.”

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The chairman of New Zealand rugby, Brent Impey, said. “On behalf of the New Zealand rugby board, I’d like to thank Steve for his enormous contribution to our national game.

“He’s hugely respected, clear in his views, and will leave the job as one of the greatest ever All Blacks coaches. His record is unsurpassed. The All Blacks currently hold all the major trophies we play for, he played a critical role in the back-to-back World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, and we wish him and the team all the very best for next year’s campaign.”