Union coy on new coaching staff

Steelform Wanganui manager Chris Back has yet to be involved with any of the debate having only just returned home from NZ Heartland managerial duties on Sunday night. PHOTO/FILE

Wanganui Rugby Union is still working through the processes to find new coaching staff for Steelform Wanganui next season.

The Wanganui Heartland squad has no one at the helm during the off season after Karl Hoskin resigned last week following the team's worst national provincial championship result since 1985.

Union chief executive Dale Cobb was on sick leave yesterday and unavailable for comment, but administrator John Phillips confirmed a decision on what path to take had yet to be made.

Following Hoskin's resignation last week Cobb indicated an announcement on selectors, which traditionally includes the Heartland coach, was expected this week.

Cobb said last week the union had three options - "appoint, negotiate or advertise", which he listed in that order.

The rumour mill had suggested likely successors may have already been approached, but union officials remain tight-lipped.

Names thrown around in rugby circles include former coach Jason Caskey and his deputy Jason Hamlin. Long-time Steelform Heartland manager Chris Back was in the dark about any recent developments after only just returning home from managing the successful New Zealand Heartland XV on Sunday night.

Meanwhile, Hoskin's father, Wanganui union chairman Dave Hoskin, who has stood aside from any debate over the issue for reasons of transparency, has been in Europe following the All Blacks tour.

A recorded message on Cobb's union office telephone yesterday said he was on sick leave until 9am this morning.