Hansen to leave: The best Opta facts from New Zealand coach’s tenure

Steve Hansen has confirmed he will bring an end to his hugely successful reign as New Zealand’s head coach following next year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Using Opta data, we take a look at the numbers behind Hansen’s impressive stint in charge of the All Blacks, which began in December 2011.

89 – New Zealand have triumphed in 85 of their 96 Tests under Hansen, posting a sensational win ratio of 89 per cent. The next best win ratio in the same period belongs to England (68 per cent).

434 – In those 96 matches, Hansen’s men have scored a whopping 434 tries at an average of 4.5 per game and conceded only 144.

18 – The All Blacks share the record for the most consecutive victories by a tier-one nation, having won 18 Tests in a row from August 2015 to October 2016. This streak was subsequently matched by England. Under Hansen, New Zealand also won 17 matches in a row from June 2013 to June 2014, equalling the previous record.

2015 – Hansen was at the helm as New Zealand retained the Rugby World Cup in 2015. Four years earlier, they had won the event with Hansen serving as an assistant to Graham Henry.

2 – No team has recorded more than two wins over the All Blacks since Hansen took charge. His eight defeats have come at the hands of Ireland (twice), Australia (twice), South Africa (twice), England and the British and Irish Lions.

43 – New Zealand have won 43 of their 49 matches against Rugby Championship rivals Australia, South Africa and Argentina during Hansen’s reign. They boast a 100 per cent record against Argentina in that time, having won all 14 of their contests.

83 – Sam Whitelock has earned 83 caps under Hansen, the highest tally of any player. Next on the list come Kieran Read, Aaron Smith (both 82), Owen Franks and Brodie Retallick (both 75).

595 – Unsurprisingly, Beauden Barrett has contributed more points in Hansen’s time in charge than any other All Black, while Julian Savea boasts the most tries (46).

6 – Read is one of only six men to have served as Hansen’s captain, having done so on 43 occasions. Richie McCaw was skipper for 44 of Hansen’s matches, while Sam Whitelock (5), Sam Cane (2), Ben Smith (1) and Luke Whitelock (1) have also captained the team.

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