/ 19 December 1999

SMITH REPLACES HART AS ALL BLACKS COACH

FORMER All Black Wayne Smith was handed one of world sport’s toughest jobs on Friday when he was named to replace John Hart as coach of New Zealand’s rugby team. Smith beat the challenge of Tony Gilbert, who was named as his assistant. Hart departed after New Zealand finished fourth at this year’s World Cup, admitting the public had demanded his blood. Smith, who has guided the Canterbury Crusaders to two Super 12 successes, said he was deeply honored to take on the position. “As a player you always strive for the highest honors, and as a coach you do the same,” Smith said Friday. “I feel as proud today as I did when I was first named an All Black.