Graham Henry (left) and Robbie Deans want the same job, but were showing different emotions yesterday. Photo / Mark Mitchell
The NZRU was expected to announce its decision on the new All Blacks coach today.
Of the two main candidates, Graham Henry cut a stern figure yesterday when he arrived at Rugby Union headquarters seeking to keep the job he has held for four years.
His solemn countenance
was in contrast to his main challenger, Crusaders coach Robbie Deans, and outsider candidates Colin Cooper and Ian Foster, who were all smiles before and after their interviews.
Henry batted away questions, saying he would not comment until the interview process was completed.
He said little more after his interview, which lasted more than two hours.
The all-new media-friendly Deans said he was a different coach from the one who assisted John Mitchell during the All Blacks' unsuccessful 2003 World Cup campaign.
"You learn in coaching from every experience and I am a very different coach now, certainly from what I was 10 years ago. It's a bit scary looking back. And five years ago likewise."
He also sidestepped questions on whether he would coach Australia if passed over for the All Blacks job.
"I don't know. If I wasn't successful here, I've got a great job, which I look forward to getting my teeth into. Outside of that I don't know."
Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper, and Chiefs coach Ian Foster were interviewed earlier in the day.
Cooper said he had enjoyed his chance to present his ideas to the board.
"We tell our players to aspire to become All Blacks and it has always been a goal of mine to be part of the All Blacks."
Foster said he had been keen to show the board he was a legitimate option.
Photos: The candidates