Rugby: The funny and awkward interview of Steve Hansen – Former All Blacks coach about the Bledisloe Cup clash and retirement

Former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has endured a brutally awkward interview but has finally revealed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash this weekend.

Speaking with Sky Sport The Breakdown’s Joe Wheeler and former All Black Israel Dagg at his Wanaka home, Hansen discussed the All Blacks ‘prospects, retirement, and the Wallabies’ challenge at Bledisloe I.

Dagg even managed to hilariously pull the stoic Hansen out of his shell.

“It’s great for the country, great for the players, great for the coaches, both new,” Hansen said of this weekend’s Bledisloe Cup clash in Wellington, before being interrupted by Dagg, who encouraged further enthusiasm for part of his former coach.

“Do you want me to get really excited?” Hansen replied. “Yeah sorry buddy. How great that we have test rugby at Sky Stadium!”

Hansen said he enjoyed retirement, allowing him to spend more time with his family and watch rugby from afar.

“It’s great. I mean take a look. The view is exceptional. It’s nice and relaxing. A lot of time to do what I want to do with the family. And to be able to watch football instead of being a part of it.

“You will probably miss it for the first time. [Sunday] when you see that the boys are over but it was about time, right?

What have you been doing semi-retired?

“There’s some water so you can go fishing. The fishing season has just started, so I’ll be looking for trout.

“Speaking of trout, that’s our location on Main Street. Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie own that and their young friend (Damian McKenzie) runs for the All Blacks, so we’ll be there supporting them.

“Golf, obviously. A lot of time with golf. It’s such a quiet place. You can do whatever you like and have fun.”

Hansen said he expected a tough side from the Wallabies, but backed the All Blacks to get him out on Sunday.

“Of course they are going to compete. They are a good team and they will be well trained. Good players and they have something to play for, right? They haven’t won the Bledisloe in a long time. I’m sure our guys will be ready.” .

Hansen also ruled out going back to work in the form of a commentator role with Sky, preferring instead to enjoy her peaceful life in Wanaka.

See the full interview above