 Kirwan won 63 caps for New Zealand as a player |
John Kirwan has been appointed as the new coach of the Japan national team. The former New Zealand wing, who was dismissed as Italy coach after a winless Six Nations in 2005, takes up his new role on 1 January.
He will act as team advisor for the World Cup qualifiers against Hong Kong and South Korea next month.
"He has a clear vision to win at least two games at the World Cup," said Japan Rugby Football Union general manager Osamu Ota.
"He has a long-term vision to improve the Japan national team.
"He has agreed to live in Japan, he understands Japanese culture and customs, and has previously coached an international team."
Kirwan had a glittering career with the All Blacks, scoring 35 tries, and played club rugby in Italy during the 1980s.
He played for NEC in Japan between 1997-99 and after a stint with the Auckland Blues, became head coach of Italy in 2002.
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