Rugby: Public has lost trust in NZRU - Wylie

NZRU chief executive-designate Steve Tew. Photo / Getty Images

Former All Blacks coach Alex Wyllie is not surprised about the public vitriol being directed at New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) headquarters.

Many supporters are suggesting they will not back Graham Henry following his re-appointment as All Blacks coach.

Wyllie said the fans simply do not trust the administrators and feel the NZRU has not been completely honest with the rugby public.

With Henry safely back in his role as coach, many are struggling to take the World Cup review process seriously.

A draft report on the failed campaign is due in March or April next year.

Wyllie also believes Henry's reappointment was a done deal after hearing rumours in high places doing the rounds for quite some time.

However, NZRU chief executive-designate Steve Tew is insulted by such claims.

Tew said the speculation is completely incorrect.

He said the board went through an exhaustive process and there is no way they would have done it any way but professionally and open.

Meanwhile, Wylie is not buying into Australian criticism over Robbie Deans' chances of getting the Wallabies job.

Former Aussie internationals Nick Farr-Jones and Peter FitzSimons want to see an Australian take charge, but Wyllie said the Australian Rugby Union has to go for the best and nationality should not be a factor.

The NZRU board will meet on Wednesday to discuss whether Robbie Deans can continue to coach the Crusaders if he is appointed as Wallabies coach this week. They will also speak with Henry about any concerns he has over Deans continuing with the Crusaders if he gets the Australian job.

- NEWSTALK ZB