Bunce aids Auckland

By CHRIS RATTUE

Bunce is back. The great All Black centre will join Auckland's NPC coaching staff on a one-year contract as a defence specialist.

Frank Bunce, the 55-test back, will add a highly respected voice to the Auckland and Blues set-ups, as well as his technical expertise and experience playing at the highest level.

Many believe the loss of Sean Fitzpatrick - another respected figure - as Blues manager played a big part in the team's downfall this year. Bunce may help to fill that gap.

He has been a coach in Italy for the Rovato and Leonessa clubs and was one of the mentors brought in by Graham Henry to help guide the All Blacks this season.

Bunce had trouble breaking into the strong Auckland side in the late 1980s, then moved to North Harbour, forming a legendary midfield partnership with Walter Little.