LONDON- All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith reveals his future tomorrow as speculation continues to mount that the Grand Slam-sealing win over England at Twickenham could mark the end of his association with the world's leading rugby team.
Smith was focused on celebrating with the squad and managementafter New Zealand beat England 32-6 at Twickenham today.
However, he said he would clarify his coaching future before the team dispersed.
He has been linked with the head coaching role at Welsh club Ospreys while he has also been approached by other unnamed European clubs before and during the All Blacks unbeaten tour of the UK and Ireland.
Smith signed a two-year contract extension with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) after Graham Henry was reappointed as head coach earlier this year but has said he has an out clause and would reassess his future at the end of the season.
The NZRU has indicated it would fight to retain Smith's services as backs coach though it is thought the lure of a head coaching role and the reduced travel demands associated with coaching in Europe may encourage him to leave the All Blacks set-up.
Should be decide to commit to a second coaching stint in the UK, Smith appeared comfortable with the quality of backline resources he would leave in his wake.
"The big thing for us is that we have a bright group of players," he said.
"They are working hard at understanding the game and communicating about what you see, that has shown out on this tour."
The development of Ma'a Nonu has been a particular revelation this season as the enigmatic attacker cemented the second five-eighth role vacated by Aaron Mauger and Luke McAlister after last year's World Cup.
"Ma'a epitomises what I was saying. He's developed into a player that's working hard at understanding the game. He's become a very good play caller.
"Daniel (Carter) would say he's right up there and seven test tries is testament to a pretty big year," Smith said.
Nonu scored the last of the All Blacks three tries last night while he also had a hand in the first, by Mils Muliaina in the 57th minute.
