The Hurricanes have announced the hasty promotion of Jason Holland as their head coach after the departure of John Plumtree.
Former assistant Holland took the reins with immediate effect on Thursday, six weeks out from the start of the Super Rugby season.
The move was made shortly after Plumtree’s appointment as an All Blacks assistant coach was confirmed.
Former provincial five-eighth Holland has held a back-up role since 2016, the year the Hurricans clinched a maiden title. They have reached the playoffs every year since.
However, the 47-year-old could have his hands full given the short lead-up time in charge and the key personnel losses suffered over the off-season.
Star five-eighth Beauden Barrett joined the Blues while world class back-rower Ardie Savea has announced he’ll miss the vast majority of the season to recuperate from knee surgery.
“We are obviously thrilled for Plum (Plumtree) who has deservedly been afforded an opportunity with the All Blacks,” Holland said.
“We have been working hard over the last few weeks to make the transition seamless for the squad who are thrilled for him, as well.”
Former Hurricanes and All Blacks winger Cory Jane has been promoted to an assistant coaching role on a two-year contract.
The other assistants – Carlos Spencer, Chris Gibbes and Dan Cron – are unchanged.
Holland represented Manawatu and Taranaki before playing more than 100 games for Irish province Munster up until 2008.
His coaching career began at Munster before he returned to take up an assistant role at Canterbury, then shifting to the Hurricanes.