Robbie Deans named as Barbarians head coach

Robbie Deans has been named as the Barbarians head coach for their game against the All Blacks in London at the end of the year.

Deans, in charge of Japanese Top League champions Panasonic, led Australia from 2008‑13 and is the most successful coach in Super Rugby history after winning five titles with the Crusaders.

He takes charge of the side for the match on 4 November, in what will be his third time in charge of the Barbarians.

He coached the famous invitation team most recently in 2016 when they drew 31‑all with South Africa at Wembley.

The match celebrates the 125th anniversary of the foundation of the New Zealand Rugby Union.

In the last three years the Barbarians have beaten Ireland, England, Samoa and Fiji, drawn with South Africa and scored five tries in a 40‑36 defeat against Australia.

Source: RadioNZ