All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen followed by now former assistant coach Leon MacDonald and head coach Scott Robertson. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen says he is comfortable taking on more responsibility following Leon MacDonald's shock exit.
Attack coach MacDonald quit last week with head coach Scott Robertson citing a difference in views on how to coach the team.
Hansen has taken over a lot of MacDonald's duties ahead of this weekend's Rugby Championship clash with the Springboks at Ellis Park and he was confident the players had adapted to the changes in the coaching setup.
"We've adjusted, we're working on it. It's been a good day today. The boys have been really good and the key drivers (senior leaders) have been driving it so they've been really supportive of what we're doing," Hansen said from the All Blacks training in Johannesburg.
Scott Hansen. Photo: Photosport www.photosport.nz
Hansen insisted he had not had to adjust his approach despite his added responsibilities.
"Not at all. It's about me continuing what we're doing well and also give space for our leaders to do what they do which is lead our attack and see the pictures that they see. So for us it's a continuation."
Former All Blacks first-five Tony Brown is the current Springboks attack coach and Hansen said he can see the Highlanders legend's influence on the South Africans' offence.
Tony Brown when he coached the Highlanders. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"I believe so. I've coached with Tony for a number of years. I can see his personality in the team and their excitement to use the ball, that's for sure.
"Their expansive game and the way they're playing is really exciting."
Hansen conceded the Springboks will be hard to beat at Ellis Park, where they have won nine of the last 15 tests against the All Blacks.
"I've really enjoyed watching them. They're rugby world champions and they're playing like it. They're very confident in their game. Their brand of forward power, kicking pressure and also their ability to use the ball.
"We're really excited to face them on Saturday (Sunday NZT) it's going to be a hell of a game."
