Rugby: Love appointed Tonga's coach

New Zealand Maori assistant coach Jim Love has been appointed Tonga's coach until the end of the 2003 rugby World Cup.

Love's new appointment will end his direct connection with the successful Maori team coached by Matt Te Pou.

Love has been Te Pou's assistant since 1998. "I'm proud of everything Matt and I have been able to achieve with the side, but it's time for a change and I'm excited by the opportunity that's in front of me."

Tonga play Scotland in Edinburgh on November 10, Wales in Cardiff a week later and two other midweek games on a tour of Britain.