Former All Blacks midfielder Tamati Ellison has joined the Crusaders coaching staff.
Ellison played four tests for the All Blacks between 2009 and 2012 while his silky skills and utility value impressed during his time with Wellington, the Hurricanes and Highlanders. He also represented New Zealand Maori and won a gold medal with the NZ Sevens team in 2006.
The 37-year-old will fill the fifth Crusaders coaching position vacated by former Welsh wing Mark Jones, assisting with team defence and position-specific player development.
After three years with the Melbourne Rebels, Ellison first made the transition in a player-coach role in the Japanese Top League with Kurita Water Gush, and he was then part of the Wellington Lions coaching group for the 2020 provincial season.
Ellison arrived in Christchurch last weekend and starts his new role with the Crusaders today.