Mitchell to foster talent for Wallabies

John Mitchell will help uncover and develop potential Wallabies for the next three years.

And if that sticks in certain New Zealand Rugby Union craws, so be it.

"Being a Super 14 coach means I embrace the Wallaby programme and assist them and try and produce potential Wallabies," Mitchell said last night.

And if Wallabies coach Eddie Jones comes knocking on Mitchell's door at the new Perth-based franchise?

"If Eddie wanted to use my skills in any way they're on offer. That's the commitment I've made."

There was no puff of white smoke emanating from Western Australian Rugby's chimney yesterday.

Confirmation that the former All Black coach would take charge of the franchise for the enlarged Super 14 next year was the sport's worst-kept secret since a certain All Black coach got the heave-ho 16 months ago. Failure to win a World Cup earns All Black coaches a boot down the union escalator.

But it's good news for Australian rugby.

"I am committed to Australian rugby and Western Australian rugby for 39 months," Mitchell said of his three-year deal which starts on March 14.

After being axed as All Blacks coach, Mitchell spent last year coaching Waikato in the NPC.

He was to continue this year but that has been amicably resolved and the Waikato Rugby Union will tonight start the process of finding a replacement.

Mitchell, described as the "outstanding candidate" by Rugby WA chairman Geoff Stooke, admitted he had struggled with the idea of "intermittent coaching".

"The Super 14 gives me an opportunity to lead and have influence over athletes over a 12-month period. That longevity is very rewarding."

He said discussions had been held with Wallaby internationals amid speculation a big-name signing is expected within about a fortnight.

There won't be an exemption for the fourth Australian franchise to hire overseas, or non-Australian eligible players.

Having a non-Australian coach, however, was acceptable to the Australian Rugby Union.

"I can empathise with people who want an Australian to coach," Mitchell, whose coaching CV now includes Sale, England, assistant coach, the Chiefs, Waikato and the All Blacks, said.

"The whole point of the exercise is to grow Australian coaches."

Mitchell has been accused of winning the position ahead of Australian rivals through a crafty public relations campaign designed to reduce the flak over a non-Australian appointment.

"It doesn't shed a very good light when they couldn't find an Australian good enough," Mitchell's chief rival Andy Friend said.

Mitchell, who will move to Perth in a fortnight, wants to have his squad bedded down by late September.