Kieran Crowley coached Italy to their first Six Nations victory in 36 games this past weekend. Following that victory, the former All Black had some words to say in relation to the All Black’s supporters.
During an interview with New Zealand media outlet One News Crowley discussed next year's Rugby World Cup. Crowley believes France are firm favourites to win and New Zealand supporters are too arrogant to see it.
‘One thing I’ve found since I left New Zealand…is that New Zealand supporters are arrogant to the rest of the world as far as the rugby side of things goes”.
Crowley further elaborated, "there are some outstanding players in every team throughout the world but you ask New Zealanders and they wouldn’t know three quarters of the names of the French players at the moment".
Although, most rugby fans following the game would tend to agree with Crowley. That France appears to be the best team in the world currently. It does seem to be quite a broad statement about his fellow countryman.
Or maybe Crowley's assessment is accurate, and New Zealand supporters are arrogant. Potentially an unwanted by-product of the All Blacks success.
For a long time, the All Blacks have been the pinnacle of World Rugby and although that is no longer the case, many supporters may still be adjusting to this.
Considering the All Black’s 2019 World Cup exit, and their two losses against Ireland and France in their last two matches, one would think the kiwis have had their dose of reality. At the moment, given the strength of the global game and back to back losses to end 2021, I think New Zealand supporters will be more grateful if the All Blacks are successful.
Crowley also stated his thoughts about who should be the favourites to win the next World Cup with France and Ireland leading the way. Followed closely by South Africa and New Zealand.
France and Ireland have never won a Rugby World Cup in their history. Crowley must really be impressed with what he has seen from those sides of late.
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