Pivac named new Auckland coach

WAYNE PIVAC will once again coach Auckland in New Zealand provincial rugby.

He replaces Mark Anscombe, who held the position from 2009-11, and will mentor the team for the next two seasons, the Auckland Rugby Union announced today.

Pivac previously coached Auckland from 1999-2003, with the province winning three provincial crowns during his successful tenure.

He has also coached Northland, North Harbour and Fiji during his long career.

Currently overseeing the Auckland sevens team and Pakuranga premier club side, Pivac is thrilled to have secured the role.

“It’s a big challenge in front of me with tough criteria to meet and I’m looking forward to it,” he says.

It is believed he beat former All Black and Japan coach John Kirwan and ex-Hawke’s Bay mentor and Highlanders assistant Peter Russell for the job.

ARU chief executive Andy Dalton says Pivac was the right man for the job.

“The selection panel and Auckland Rugby board believe Wayne has the ability to deliver on the high expectations and targets set for Auckland over the next two seasons.”

An assistant coach has yet to be named.

Auckland finished fifth in the ITM Cup Premiership this year.