Rugby: Mitchell eyeing All Blacks post
Former England forwards coach John Mitchell has emerged as one of the leading candidates to take charge of the All Blacks.
The 37-year-old, who was also head coach at Sale Sharks from 1996-1999 and then assisted Nigel Melville at Wasps, is hoping to succeed Wayne Smith as New Zealand’s national boss.
Smith announced his decision to stand down after being edged out by Australia in this year’s Tri-Nations series but has also re-applied for the now vacant post.
Other serious contenders to have thrown their hat into the ring include Robbie Deans, Wayne Shelford, John Boe and Tony Gilbert.
But Mitchell, a former Waikato and All Blacks No 8, is being tipped by many leading judges Down Under to get the nod having last year returned to his homeland to coach the Chiefs.
‘‘I wouldn’t have applied if I didn’t think I had the skill set and people skills to deal with such an honour,’’ Mitchell told the New Zealand Star-Times.
‘‘Apart from playing (for the All Blacks) it is the ultimate position and the ultimate challenge. I love challenges. They don’t scare me at all.
‘‘I’m in New Zealand rugby for life and if the opportunity comes my way earlier than planned for, well that’s life.
‘‘I’ve chosen to be a professional coach and this is just the way it is.’’
Mitchell led New Zealand three times in six appearances as a player and also captained Waikato to victory over the British Lions.
As a coach, he took Sale to a top-five finish in the Premiership and also reached the Pilkington Cup final in 1997 and Tetley’s Bitter Cup semi-finals in 1998.
