Rugby: Blackadder, Hammett to coach Crusaders - report

Todd Blackadder has reportedly been handed the Crusaders coaching job. Photo / Christchurch Star

Canterbury rugby stalwart Todd Blackadder and former teammate Mark Hammett have been picked to succeed Robbie Deans at the helm of the Crusaders Super 14 side, a newspaper report said today.

The pair are expected to be assisted by another former Crusader, Daryl Gibson, the Dominion Post reported.

A Crusaders spokeswoman was unable to confirm the report this afternoon.

Blackadder had a playing and coaching stint in Scotland after wrapping up his New Zealand playing career in 2001.

Blackadder played 71 games for the Crusaders and 128 matches for Canterbury. He captained the All Blacks in 10 of his 12 tests.

Blackadder is the Tasman coach while Hammett assisted Deans this year.

- NZPA