Sawt Falasteen - New Zealand's Mooar appointed Fijian Drua head coach

New Zealander Mooar, currently assistant coach with Canterbury Crusaders, signed a two-year deal to replace Glen Jackson who opted against extending his contract.

Drua chief executive Jeff Miller said "an outstanding" group of coaches applied for the job.

"Brad stood out through his technical and tactical knowledge, his experience in championship-winning environments, his understanding of player development and, importantly, his ability to build strong relationships," he said.

"Brad also understands that coaching the Fijian Drua carries responsibilities extending beyond the field. Our purpose is to win Super Rugby Pacific, inspire a nation and change lives for the better."

Mooar began his coaching career in Christchurch club rugby before moving to South Africa in 2012, working with Eastern Province Kings and Southern King.

He joined the Crusaders staff in 2016 and helped guide them to Super Rugby titles in 2017, 2018 and 2019 before being appointed head coach of Welsh side Scarlets.

He returned to New Zealand to become part of the All Blacks coaching group then joined Scotland for the 2023 Six Nations Championship and Rugby World Cup.

"What drew me to this role is the chance to work with such wonderful athletes, to be part of a culture and a people I deeply admire, and to help build something meaningful for the nation," he said.

"I believe there are enormous opportunities for us to play a special brand of rugby that is successful, entertaining and inspiring."

Fijian Drua this year finished 10th in the 11-team Super Rugby table, winning just five of their 14 matches.

C.Hamad--SF-PST