Gregor Paul: Warren opportunity to get into New Zealand rugby

What are we to make of Robbie Deans' assertions that Warren Gatland will join the Blues next season? Not a lot, really.

Gatland will return to New Zealand in July with a formidable CV but also facing a formidable set of NZRU rules which could mean that the NPC is his main entry point to coaching here. With a deserved reputation as one of the best coaches in the world, Gatland enjoyed success at Connacht, Ireland and then Wasps. The results speak volumes, as did the tribute last week from Wasps captain, Lawrence Dallaglio.

Understandably, the Blues want to speak with Gatland, especially as he has stated he only wants a job in the north of the North Island.

There are plenty who insist something has already come up. Maybe not a hard and fast offer but a nudge and a wink to suggest that coming home in a few months would be a smart move.

But under NZRU regulations, Gatland is ineligible to be head coach at any Super 12 franchise next season. He must complete 12 months' coaching at NPC level or as an assistant Super 12 coach first.

If current Blues head coach Peter Sloane makes this year his last, as is widely predicted, the franchise would have to seek dispensation to appoint Gatland as a replacement.

The NZRU are never keen to break the rules. Making an exception for Gatland is not a precedent they want to set.

However, no such permission would be required if the Blues promoted current technical adviser David Nucifora and hired Gatland in the Australian's former role.

The role of technical adviser was created to get Graham Henry back into coaching when he returned from Wales.

It's a role that allows a previously overseas-based coach immediate entry to the professional game at Super 12 level.

Both Henry and Nucifora took on the job of technical adviser even though their previous posts were as head honchos. Maybe Gatland will feel comfortable as an assistant, maybe he'll look elsewhere for a job where he is the main man.

Elsewhere means Waikato or Auckland NPC positions. The rules here are more relaxed. Gatland could be appointed head coach of an NPC side today.

Gatland's old flatmate, John Mitchell, has two years left on his Waikato contract. However, he is linked to the new Super 14 post in Perth and several premiership teams in England.

At Auckland, Pat Lam is an emerging coach of considerable potential. He struggled last year and it may make sense for Auckland to shift him into a specialist forwards role, learning his trade under Gatland.

As Gatland pointed out from London: "I read the newspapers. I know all the speculation."

But Gatland has done well financially and can afford to wait.

As he says: "If I have to go fishing at Waihi and chill out on the beach until something comes up, then I'll be happy with that."

And the effect on the Blues of Gatland's appearance? There shouldn't be any. The players know Sloane is their Super 12 coach for 2005. End of story.


- Herald on Sunday