KEY POINTS:
Former rugby league test fullback Gary Kemble was today named as the Kiwis' new coach.
Kemble, 50, replaces Brian McClennan, who is heading to England to take over at Super League club Leeds.
He will have fellow Aucklander and former Kiwis team-mate James Leuluai and Canterbury's Phil Prescott as his assistants.
Kemble got the nod over 14 other contenders and his contract is to the end of next year's World Cup.
His first assignment will be the one-off test against Australia in Wellington, after which the Kiwis go on a three-test tour of England.
Another former Kiwis player, Sam Panapa, will join the coaching staff as team co-ordinator.
Kemble made 19 test appearances for New Zealand from 1980 to 1986.
His playing career included a lengthy spell with English club Hull, helping them to lift the Challenge Cup in the 1982 final at Wembley, along with Leuluai and compatriot Dane O'Hara.
The sides he has coached include the Junior Kiwis, the New Zealand Residents, New Zealand A and the then Auckland Warriors' reserve grade side. He has also been assistant coach with the Kiwis.
Last year, he coached the Counties Manukau Jetz in the Bartercard Cup.
Kemble described the appointment as a great honour.
"When I started playing, I dreamed of playing for the Kiwis and was lucky enough to achieve it," he said.
"Once I started coaching it was the same. It's a huge thrill and a tremendous honour to become Kiwi coach."
- NZPA
