Former All Blacks captain Umaga to coach Moana Pasifika

Moana Pasifika confirmed on Sunday former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga will be the new head coach of the Super Rugby Pacific franchise on a three-year deal.

Umaga will take charge next year of the combined Pacific Island side, which is based in Auckland and comprises players of Samoan, Tongan and Cook Island heritage.

He will replace his former test backline partner Aaron Mauger, who oversaw Moana's difficult first two seasons in the competition and announced his resignation before the end of this year's campaign.

The 50-year-old Umaga coached Moana in their inaugural match against the Maori All Blacks in 2020, two years before they joined Super Rugby Pacific as one of two new teams, alongside Fijian Drua.

"I've always held a special place for Moana Pasifika since its inception, and I'm deeply honoured for this opportunity," said Umaga, who was the first player of Pacific descent to captain the All Blacks when he took charge under coach Graham Henry in 2004.

"From their first game, Moana Pasifika have shown flair and ability to contest with the calibre teams of the Super Rugby Pacific competition. I'm excited to progress their journey."

Umaga faces a steep challenge to bring success to a team who have finished last in the 12-team competition in each of their first two seasons. They have won just three of their 28 competition games.

Born to Samoan parents, Umaga led New Zealand in 22 of his 74 tests.

His coaching career began at French club Toulon and he was the Blues head coach in Super Rugby from 2016 to 2018, before continuing as their defence coach.