The Blues have appointed a former All Blacks coach to take the team into the future.
Jason Holland will take over the reins at the Auckland franchise on a three-year deal, replacing Vern Cotter, who will leave at the end of the season to take up a role with the Reds.
It’s the latest chapter in an 18-year coaching career for Holland, who has built his reputation across both hemispheres.
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He has previously held assistant roles at Munster, the Crusaders and the Hurricanes, before stepping up as Hurricanes head coach, and more recently returning to the franchise in an assistant capacity.
Holland said his immediate focus remains with his current role, but admitted the opportunity ahead is a significant one.
“But the opportunity to join the Blues from 2027 is incredibly exciting,” he said.
“It’s a club with a proud history and I see huge potential to add to that legacy.”
His appointment comes amid wider changes in the coaching landscape, with Cotter heading to the Reds to replace Les Kiss.
Holland had also recently stepped away from the All Blacks setup, opting not to renew his contract under then head coach Scott Robertson, who has since been replaced by Dave Rennie following mixed results.
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While Holland prepares for his next move, his current side the Hurricanes are setting the pace in Super Rugby.
They underlined their title credentials with a dominant 50-7 win over the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday, running in eight tries in a ruthless attacking display.
– AFP
Photo: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile via Getty Images
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