Look who’s back…

Former All Blacks and Lions coach Graham Henry is set to make a surprise return to coaching. The World Cup-winning coach has been named as Auckland’s assistant coach for the 2018 Mitre 10 Cup season.

In a statement released by Auckland Rugby on Friday, Henry and Tai Lavea were named as assistant coaches to head coach Alama Ieremia.

Ieremia said he was excited by the prospect of working alongside the former All Black coach from not only a technical and tactical point of view, but also one of identity and culture.

“Sir Graham obviously has a wealth of knowledge around the defence systems and trends of the game with a track record that speaks for itself,” Ieremia told Auckland Rugby’s official website.

“Additionally, a key aspect of Graham’s involvement is his role as a mentor not only to the coaches, but most importantly for the players.

“From a head coach’s point of view, creating a culture and identity that people are proud of is a big rock for the Auckland Mitre 10 Cup team this year. Having Sir Graham with his experience will enhance that for this team.”

Henry led Auckland to four successive titles (1993-1996) before moving onto the Blues, Wales, British and Irish Lions and All Blacks. His last elongated coaching post was assisting Argentina from 2012-2013 after their introduction to the Rugby Championship.