21 Apr 2022

Wayne Smith named new Black Ferns coach

3:14 pm on 21 April 2022

"It's a big challenge, but I'm excited," says Wayne Smith who has been confirmed as the new coach for the Black Ferns.

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Talking to reporters this afternoon, Wayne Smith said: "It's a challenge, you're talking about playing against teams - particularly a couple of teams, England and France - and physical development that's important, so there's some catching up to do.

"I've been really impressed since I've started, with the attitude of the girls.

"It's a big challenge, but I'm excited. I never thought that at this time in my career I'd be embarking on something new again, and that's what I'm doing."

Sir Steve Hansen's daughter Whitney Hansen, and Wesley Clarke will be Smith's assistants.

"Whitney was already with the group as an intern coach, she's highly thought of within the group ... both by players and coaches. This is a step up for her, and so she's going to be in charge of the forwards with Mike Cron helping as a mentor - more than mentor, he's going to be here quite a bit leading up to the World Cup. So it's a great opportunity, and she's a smart woman who comes across well and has a very good influence on this team of girls."

Former Black Ferns head coach Glenn Moore stepped down following the release of a scathing review into the team's culture and environment.

He had coached the Black Ferns since 2015 and was in charge when they won the 2017 World Cup.

The Black Ferns defend their World Cup title on home soil later this year.

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