Darren Shand to be new All Blacks manager

Former New Zealand A rugby team manager Darren Shand has been appointed manager of the All Blacks.

Shand, 38, managed New Zealand A during their tour of France, Wales and Romania in 2000.

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) confirmed Shand's appointment yesterday. He had been in a two-way contest with former All Blacks captain Andy Dalton for the position.

These two, plus former All Blacks lock Andy Haden, were widely reported to have made a shortlist of three. Haden later withdrew from the race.

Shand acted as manager for the Crusaders in the Super 12 from 2000 to 2003.

He is a former sponsorship manager for the Canterbury Rugby Union.

"The board is pleased to be able to appoint a person of Darren's experience and calibre to this important position within New Zealand rugby," NZRU chairman Jock Hobbs said.

More than 50 people originally applied for the All Blacks manager's job and final interviews were conducted by the board on Thursday.

NZRU chief executive Chris Moller said Shand had a track record in a wide range of areas directly related to the management of a high-profile sporting teams and this had given him the edge.

"Darren has proven experience in the areas he is required to take a leadership role within the All Blacks," Moller said.

"He has shown an ability to develop an effective and constructive working relationship with people from all levels of professional and sporting backgrounds."

Shand represented New Zealand in hockey at under-23 level and worked as marketing manager for AJ Hackett Bungy in Queenstown before joining the Canterbury union.

He said he was delighted to be able to take up the position.

"This appointment is a huge honour. The All Blacks represent the heart and soul of New Zealand sport.

" ... to lead our national team's campaign is a very exciting and humbling challenge."

It has yet to be finalised when Shand will take up his position.

- NZPA