Mick Byrne named coach of Fiji Test side

The Fijian Rugby Union have announced that a former All Blacks coach will replace Simon Raiwalui as head coach of the Flying Fijians.

Mick Byrne was the All Blacks’ skills coach between 2005 and 2015 and performed the same role with Australia from 2016 to 2020.

In 2021, he was named as the Fijian Drua’s head coach, and after a successful stint in Super Rugby Pacific, he now takes up the role with the Test team.
New Fiji head coach

The Fijian Rugby Union confirmed the appointment on Tuesday after an “extensive and rigorous selection and negotiation process,” and Byrne has since been granted a long-term work permit.

The statement added: “Fiji Rugby is delighted to have a coach of Mick’s calibre who was part of three Rugby World Cup-winning teams. Mick also brings a deep understanding and love for Fijian rugby proven by the progress and achievements of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua.

“Mick joins Fiji Rugby with the blessings of the Drua management and will complete this Super Rugby Pacific season with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua while overseeing the FIJI Water Flying Fijians’ preparations for the Barbarians, All Blacks Test, July Tests, and the end of the year European tour.”