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Ex-Highlanders coach Tony Brown a 'done deal' for Springboks
Former Highlanders head coach and Japan assistant Tony Brown will join Rassie Erasmus’ staff as an assistant coach with the Springboks according a report.
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New Zealand publication Stuff has reported a ‘done deal’ between Brown and SARU, with the former All Black first five set to be unveiled later this week.
He will join the Springboks as an attack coach as Erasmus rebuilds the Springboks’ coaching team following the departures of Jacques Nienaber and Felix Jones.
Brown was part of two World Cup campaigns with Japan under Jamie Joseph, the pair having a long professional relationship going back to their time at the Highlanders where they won the 2015 Super Rugby title.
The appointment of Brown adds further intrigue ahead of the Rugby Championship with Joe Schmidt joining the Wallabies as head coach and Scott Robertson taking over the All Blacks.
Brown is known as an innovative attacking genius who will bring new ideas to the Springboks in their follow up campaign having claimed back-t0-back World Cup crowns last November.
The Springboks host Ireland in July before two Tests against the All Blacks at home and two away against the Wallabies during the Rugby Championship. They play Argentina home and away to finish out the tournament.
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Like I’ve said: I’m sure it wouldn’t difficult for the world champs to find world-class replacements for Felix Jones and Jacques Nienaber.
This is an inspired move if it comes to pass.
Scott Robertson, Ian Foster and Jamie Joseph all wanted Tony Brown as part of their coaching staff for the recently completed World Cup cycle and now it appears Brown will be involved in trying to take down the Scott Robertson coached All Blacks. Surely he’d be the first New Zealander to work with the Springboks. They have had some Aussies - Tim Lane, Les KIss, Frank Ponissi, Mick Bryne and most famously Eddie Jones but I think they’re yet to have a Kiwi on their staff.
Congrats Tony on becoming part of the World Champs and most successful team in RWC history. Hope you make the most of this amazing opportunity.