Justin Marshall details how Scott Robertson got 'no heads-up' on All Blacks fate

Former All Blacks halfback Justin Marshall has provided more details on the sensational sacking of head coach Scott Robertson.

‘Razor’ was given his marching orders on January 15th after an underwhelming second season in charge.

NZ Rugby chair David Kirk said he and Robertson came to a "mutual" decision that it was in the team's best interest for him to leave.

But Marshall paints a different picture on The Good, The Bad and The Rugby podcast, saying Robertson found out about his fate at the same time it was being reported online.

"To have to be told on that day like everybody else, you know, he got told at the same time as the story was unfolding that he would no longer be the All Black coach was something that took him massively by surprise."

Marshall says it was disappointing that Robertson didn’t get the opportunity to defend himself against accusations of a toxic environment stemming from the player review.

"He had no heads up and then, you know, there was no ability to have any more conversations. The decision was made and taken out of his control." Marshall said.

"I’ve been part of senior player groups. You just go sort that shit out with the coach. The back seat goes there, the senior players, and you chat it through. And that includes environment and cultural issues within the squad. They all just get resolved internally."

Robertson hasn’t spoken publicly about the situation but Marshall says he’s caught up with his former All Blacks and Crusaders teammate since his sacking.

 "Seeing him probably about 10 days after that was difficult. As we know, he wears his heart on his sleeve, Razor, and he cares about every team he coaches."

Marshall still feels that New Zealand Rugby made a rash decision and believes there are other individuals who needed to be held to account.

"Where does the buck stop? You know, why has all of this been blamed on Scott Robertson? You know, there are other coaches and equally there are players that have let down the side at times."

NZR are yet to appoint Robertson’s successor with Highlanders boss Jamie Joseph and Kobe coach Dave Rennie thought to be the frontrunners.