Star first five-eighths Richie Mo’unga remains committed to returning to New Zealand in his quest to play at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, despite Scott Robertson’s departure as All Blacks coach.

Mo’unga has been based in Japan since the 2023 Rugby World Cup where he’s featured 37 times for the Todd Blackadder-coached Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo, winning back-to-back Japan Rugby League One titles.

In August, Mo’unga announced his decision to return home on an 18-month contract from July 2026 to December 2027, although Robertson and then NZ Rugby (NZR) chief executive Mark Robinson did attempt to lure him back earlier.

Last week, Robertson stepped down as All Blacks coach, leading to questions if that would impact Mo’unga’s desire to return home. The pair have a close bond due to their time with the Crusaders where they won five full titles and two Covid-era crowns.

Mo’unga’s agent Cameron McIntyre said Robertson’s exit did not change anything.

“Richie did not base his decision on who would be coaching the All Blacks. He wants to win a RWC and will play under whoever is coach at that time.”

Richie Mo'unga during the 2023 Rugby World Cup final. Photo / Photosport

Due to the timing of Mo’unga’s return, it’s unlikely he will be picked for the All Blacks’ tour of South Africa.

However, he will be available for the two Bledisloe Cup tests in October, before the All Blacks embark on four Nations Championship tests (three tests in the northern hemisphere, plus the finals weekend).

He will play for Canterbury in the NPC and the Crusaders in the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.

“I’ve grown a lot during my time in Japan with Toshiba, both on and off the field,” Mo’unga said in a statement, announcing his return.

“It’s been an incredible experience with my family that I’ll always be grateful for, and I’m really excited for one more season with them.”

The 31-year-old has played 56 tests for the All Blacks.

There has been no timeline placed on how soon NZR would want to make an appointment, but with the South Africa tour in mind, a decision sooner rather than later would likely be preferred.

Jamie Joseph is the leading candidate, but he’s set to coach the Highlanders in the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season, with their first pre-season game scheduled for January 30.

However, across the Tasman, new Wallabies coach Les Kiss will also remain as Queensland Reds coach this season before replacing Joe Schmidt in the role.

Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.