The story appears on

Page B7

August 17, 2011

GET this page in PDF

Free for subscribers

View shopping cart

Related News

HomeSportsRugby

Deans to continue as Wallabies coach until 2013

ROBBIE Deans has signed a new contract to remain as Wallabies coach until the end of 2013, the Australian Rugby Union said yesterday.

The New Zealander, who will name his squad for the World Cup tomorrow, took over on a four-year contract in 2008 and has built a talented young side currently ranked second in the world.

The decision means the 51-year-old has decided to give up the chance of succeeding Graham Henry as All Blacks coach after the September 9-October 23 World Cup.

"A large number of players have re-committed to Australian rugby this year, I'm pleased to be joining them," Deans said in a news release. "My priority remains, as it has always been, on the preparations both for the final (Tri-Nations) test against the All Blacks in Brisbane, and then for the rugby World Cup that follows in New Zealand."

Deans returns to Australia with his team today from South Africa, where the Wallabies beat the Springboks 14-9 last weekend. Their final Tri-Nations test is against New Zealand on August 27.

After playing five tests at fullback for the All Blacks in the 1980s, Deans built his coaching reputation at the Canterbury Crusaders, who he led to five of their seven Super titles.

Since taking charge of the Wallabies he has brought through talents like James O'Connor, Will Genia, Quade Cooper, Kurtley Beale and David Pocock.

"There is no doubt Robbie has earmarked and brought through a new generation of Wallabies stars and we have certainly not stood still over the 3-1/2 years he has been in charge of the national team," ARU Chief Executive John O'Neill said.

 

Copyright 漏 1999- Shanghai Daily. All rights reserved.Preferably viewed with Internet Explorer 8 or newer browsers.

娌叕缃戝畨澶 31010602000204鍙

Email this to your friend