Rugby: Tana Umaga named as Maori All Blacks assistant coach

Blues coach Tana Umaga with Sonny Bill Williams (right). Photo / Brett Phibbs

Blues boss and former All Blacks skipper Tana Umaga has been named the assistant coach for the Maori All Blacks.

Umaga, who played for the All Blacks on 74 occasions, will accompany the side on their November tour of the United States and British Isles.

He will be joined by new assistant forwards coach Carl Hoeft.

Head coach Colin Cooper said Umaga and Hoeft would add value to his coaching set-up through their experience and insight.

"Tana brings a certain mana to our team," Cooper said.

"He understands the professional rugby environment well and brings a strong high performance approach to his work."

The touring Maori All Blacks squad will be named in October.

- AAP