Ex-All Black chosen as talent spotter

Former All Blacks midfielder Mark Robinson is to join the New Zealand Rugby Union next month as talent identification manager.

Robinson, 32, who played nine tests between 2000 and 2002, will work with coaches of national teams, Super 14 franchises, Air New Zealand Cup sides and other provincial coaches.

He will be responsible for co-ordinating a strategy and system for talent identification and assessment.

The NZRU deputy chief executive, Steve Tew, said identifying talented players was key to the development of rugby.

"We want to build on the outstanding work that has been carried out for many years by coaches and volunteers," he said.

"All major sports around the world have people in these roles and if we are to remain at the top of international rugby, it is crucial that we further develop this area."

Robinson had a wealth of knowledge, having played for the Crusaders and the All Blacks, as well as in Britain and Japan, Tew said.

Robinson recently returned after playing in Japan for two years.

"I'm excited to be still involved in rugby now that I have retired from playing," he said. "I have a strong interest in the development of rugby in New Zealand.

"While talent identification has been around in other sports for some time, a proactive, co-ordinated, national focus is still relatively new for rugby, so I'm keen to develop the role."

- NZPA