(Recasts with Smith turning down role)
LONDON May 1 (Reuters) – Former All Blacks coach Wayne
Smith has rejected a role with England but Mike Catt will join
the backroom staff for next month’s five-match tour of South
Africa, the RFU said on Tuesday.
Smith, who helped guide his country to World Cup victory at
home last year, told the Rugby Football Union website
(www.rfu.com) that he had decided to stay in New Zealand for
personal reasons.
“It was an incredibly difficult decision,” he said, after
ringing England head coach Stuart Lancaster to tell him his
decision.
“I took the job with the (Waikato) Chiefs so I could move
nearer to elderly parents. I have travelled the globe with rugby
for the last 15 years and I want to fulfil my commitment to be
closer to them.
“I do also feel some loyalty to the Chiefs and the job that
I have with them and leaving after eight months when I have a
year left on my contract did not feel right.”
Former England utility back Catt will leave London Irish
after Saturday’s final Premiership game against Gloucester for
England duties from May 7 to June 30.
“Mike has played at the top level and is highly respected.
He has done a great job whilst coaching at London Irish and we
are looking forward to working with him on this South Africa
tour,” said Lancaster in a statement.
“He is experienced in playing in South Africa and this will
be invaluable as we prepare for this challenging and exciting
tour.”
Continued…
