Allan Bunting announced as new Black Ferns Director of Rugby
Bunting, who succeeds Wayne Smith, is no stranger to success, with his credentials being world class. Having been involved with the Black Ferns Sevens set up for a decade, overseeing their achievements at every international tournament during that period, leading the Chiefs Manawa to an inaugural Sky Super Rugby Aupiki title in 2022, and most recently empowering the growth of the Black Ferns, to assist in achieving their Rugby World Cup victory.
Bunting said he was grateful and honoured to be appointed as Black Ferns Director of Rugby.
“I feel very honoured and privileged to be in this position. It is such an amazing time to be involved in women’s rugby. The opportunities are endless to develop our talent, aspire our future and grow our leaders, which is really exciting.”
The continued success of the Black Ferns is top of mind for Bunting.
“As a team, it is important we keep building off the success from last year and create an environment that nurtures, supports and produces thriving people and in turn, a successful game.
“We are blessed with a massive amount of talent in this country and there is an opportunity to identify and support that talent so we can build depth. In turn, that will enhance the professional standards in our team and the Farah Palmer Cup and Sky Super Rugby Aupiki competitions. It's also critical to remember to keep enjoying the journey.”
Bunting acknowledged the incredible contribution Wayne Smith has made to the Black Ferns legacy.
“Smithy has been instrumental to this game, but most importantly he gave women’s rugby a special gift. Now it’s our responsibility as a team, organisation and country to build on that and continue to foster our legacy.”
NZR CEO Mark Robinson said Bunting’s achievements both on and off the field were remarkable.
“Allan has showed his calibre as a coach with the Black Ferns Sevens, in Super Rugby Aupiki with Chiefs Manawa, and most recently as Black Ferns Manager of Culture and Leadership. He has a proven track record on and off the field and the energy and inclusivity he brings to team environments is impressive.
“We know he is excited to continue building the team and maintaining the momentum from last year. We’re pleased to confirm the Black Ferns will play seven Tests against quality opponents, including the Pacific Four Series and Laurie O’Reilly Cup. The details of these fixtures are in the final stages and will be announced in the coming weeks.“
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I’m sick to death of waiting 3 years for league players to become half decent. It cripples Australian rugby in the meantime. The Reds actually looked half competent without Vunivalu not starting last week. He’s just a liability of errors. Paisami is looking better than he has in previous years but I’d have Kerevi back in a flash. A kiwi wont tho …...
Go to commentsExcellent analysis Nick as we have come to expect. I was not really aware that NFL strategies have been adopted by rugby teams, especially in defence. One point I would make is that the Northhampton attacking player on the end of the chain in the video examples has not maintained the correct depth to be effective. In the footage shown the outside player is too flat to make the best of the opportunity his inside players have provided. In each case they have to reduce speed and turn their body backwards to secure the ball, losing all momentum and giving the impressive scrambling defence the chance to shut down the threat.
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