New Zealand Rugby have secured the services of Springboks assistant coach Tony Brown from 2028, with the former All Black signing a two-year deal to join Dave Rennie's backroom staff.
Brown, who has served as the Boks' attack coach since 2024, will complete his contract with the world champions through their Rugby World Cup 2027 campaign in Australia before returning to New Zealand. The 18-cap former fly-half has been credited with transforming South Africa's attacking game during a dominant 2025 season that included a record 43-10 victory over the All Blacks in Wellington.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster described Brown as a world-class coach consistently sought after by teams around the globe. The appointment was led by incoming high performance director Don Tricker, who begins his role full-time in November, with Rennie engaged throughout the process. Lancaster confirmed that discussions regarding the All Blacks head coach role will take place no later than the conclusion of the 2027 Rugby Championship.
Before his switch, Brown will face his future employers when the Springboks and All Blacks meet in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour in August and September. The series comprises three Tests in South Africa and a fourth fixture in Baltimore.