New Zealand Rugby has parted ways with assistant coach Leon MacDonald just weeks before their crucial Rugby Championship matches against the Springboks in South Africa.

This unexpected move leaves All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson scrambling to find a replacement before the two-test series begins.

In a statement released on Thursday, New Zealand Rugby expressed gratitude for MacDonald’s contributions but confirmed his departure. “We thank Leon MacDonald for his valuable contributions as an All Blacks assistant coach,” the statement read. “Leon has decided to leave the coaching group ahead of the South Africa tests. He departs with our respect and best wishes.”

The Springboks, currently leading the Rugby Championship standings, will host the All Blacks at Ellis Park Stadium on 31 August and DHL Stadium on 7 September. The two teams last faced each other in the Rugby World Cup final in France, a match that ended in a Springboks victory.

The upcoming series promises to be intense, with the All Blacks eager to avenge their World Cup loss. Despite their recent resurgence, the All Blacks will face a formidable challenge against the in-form Springboks.