Former All Black takes role at Sunwolves

Editor

Former New Zealand back-row Filo Tiatia has accepted a role as forwards coach for Japan's new Super Rugby franchise.

Tiatia, who earned two caps for the All Blacks in 2000 and played 57 times for the Hurricanes, revealed the news on Facebook.

"It is with a heavy heart that I would like to inform you all that I will be leaving as the director of rugby here at Scots College," wrote the 44-year-old.

"I have recently accepted a role in the new Japanese Super 18 franchise as the forwards coach in this year's inaugural Super 18 competition.

"The timing is obviously not fantastic and I want to apologise for that but I am a great believer that 'Nothing happens by accident and it happens for a purpose.' "

The Kiwi took over the coaching reins at Toyota Verblitz in 2012 and had intermittent experience under Eddie Jones while he was leading Japan.

Tiatia will join head coach Mark Hammett, who formerly coached the Hurricanes.