Kirwan's worldwide coaching career continues

John Kirwan

Former All Black John Kirwan has been named coach of Japan.

The 41-year-old former All Black will act as an adviser during next month's World Cup qualifiers in Sri Lanka before formally taking over in January.

Kirwan played 63 times for New Zealand and played for Japanese team NEC for three seasons in the late 1990s before hanging up his boots.

He then worked as assistant coach of the Auckland Blues before becoming head coach of Italy, leading the team at the 2003 World Cup.

Kirwan replaces Jean-Pierre Elissalde, whose Japan contract was terminated when he became general manager of French side Bayonne without consulting JRFU officials.

- NEWSTALK ZB