A former New Zealand assistant coach has been appointed head coach of the Fijian Drua, tasked with reviving the Super Rugby outfit after a poor 2026 campaign.
Ex-All Blacks and Scotland assistant Brad Mooar, currently assistant coach with the Crusaders, has 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.”
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Mooar began his coaching career in Christchurch club rugby before moving to South Africa in 2012, working with Eastern Province Kings and Southern King.
The New Zealander 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.”
The Drua finished 10th in the 11-team Super Rugby table last season, winning just five of their 14 matches.
– AFP
Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
The post Ex-All Blacks coach lands Super Rugby gig appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
A former New Zealand assistant coach has been appointed head coach of the Fijian Drua, tasked with reviving the Super Rugby outfit after a poor 2026 campaign.
The post Ex-All Blacks coach lands Super Rugby gig appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
