All Blacks Legend Weighs In on Scott Robertson’s Nerves and Leadership Ahead of Bledisloe Clash

 

All Blacks Legend Weighs In on Scott Robertson’s Nerves and Leadership Ahead of Bledisloe Clash

Israel Dagg believes the pressure is mounting on head coach Scott Robertson and the All Blacks as they prepare for a pivotal Bledisloe Cup opener against Australia at Eden Park.

New Zealand enters the weekend fixture with much at stake. Not only are they defending a 31-year, 51-match unbeaten streak at Eden Park, but their hold on the Bledisloe Cup and standing in the Rugby Championship are also on the line. Recent losses to Argentina and South Africa have intensified scrutiny, adding layers of tension to the upcoming trans-Tasman showdown.

Robertson’s Body Language Under the Microscope

During the Scotty and Izzy show on Sport Nation, host Scotty Stevenson commented on Robertson’s demeanor during Monday’s press conference, describing the coach as “quirky” but visibly under strain.

“He’s got his quirks, and I enjoy chatting with him,” Stevenson said. “But it’s clear he’s feeling the heat.”

Dagg echoed that sentiment, noting Robertson’s body language revealed signs of stress. “You look at the eyes, the mouth—he’s under pressure,” Dagg said. “Coming off a heavy defeat, the media’s still buzzing, and the nerves are real.”

Yet Dagg sees those nerves as a positive sign. “It means he cares. It means he wants to succeed. The pressure is intense—this week is a furnace—but that can fuel a strong response.”

Can the Wallabies Break the Eden Park Curse?

Australia hasn’t won the Bledisloe Cup since 2002, and no team has beaten New Zealand at Eden Park since 1994. While the Wallabies are showing promise under Joe Schmidt, they’ll need to win both matches to reclaim the trophy.

Dagg remains skeptical about Australia’s chances in Auckland. “Not at all,” he said when asked if the Wallabies could win there—though he admitted this year feels different.

“In the past, even when they came in confident, I knew we’d get the job done. This year, I’m not so sure,” he said. “They’ve been competitive, especially at Ellis Park, but this All Blacks team is hurting. That pain could drive a fierce response.”

Dagg expects key players to step up and deliver a statement performance, making it a challenging night for the Wallabies.