Jeff Wilson says NZ Rugby wants Jamie Joseph in charge of the All Blacks and is already eyeing a move for Springbok attack coach Tony Brown.

Joseph has emerged as the clear frontrunner to succeed Scott Robertson following his abrupt exit, but panel discussion on The Breakdown quickly shifted to Brown’s future. The former All Blacks flyhalf is currently part of SA Rugby’s coaching setup, where he has played a key role in shaping the Springboks’ attacking evolution.

Brown joined SA Rugby two years ago on a four-year deal and previously enjoyed a highly successful partnership with Joseph during their time in Japan. He was also understood to be a key component of Joseph’s unsuccessful bid for the All Blacks job in 2023.

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“It would be hard to believe Jamie’s not the guy they’ve targeted,” Wilson said. “And they’ll be hoping they can lure Tony Brown back from the Springboks. I’d be surprised if Tony hadn’t left a door open.”

The former All Blacks wing added that Brown’s willingness to assist in New Zealand earlier this year hinted that his long-term ambition could still involve the All Blacks.

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Ex-All Blacks scrumhalf Justin Marshall, however, sounded a note of caution, suggesting Brown may be locked in by SA Rugby.

“I imagine they’ve got him in concrete over there,” Marshall said. “He’s in a great environment and loves what he’s doing. It would take something really significant to move him – and the All Blacks are significant.”

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Former All Blacks fullback Mils Muliaina also backed Joseph as the right man for the job, while doubting that South Africa would loosen its grip on Brown.

“Jamie Joseph is your man,” Muliaina said. “He’s got experience, he’s been tested, and he’s worked for this. But I’d be very surprised if South Africa were that silly to let Tony Brown go.”

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