McKenzie has All Blacks in his sights

Ewen McKenzie is targeting Bledisloe Cup success after being installed as the new Australia coach yesterday.

McKenzie succeeds Robbie Deans in the post with the New Zealander resigning in the wake of the Wallabies’ series defeat to the British and Irish Lions.

McKenzie, 48, made 51 appearances for Australia at prop and was part of their 1991 World Cup-winning squad before carving out a successful coaching career at home and overseas.

He is excited at the opportunity to coach his home country and is hoping to make an immediate impact.

“I’m really pleased to be able to accept the job of Wallaby coach,” he said. “I’m pretty proud right now, pretty privileged to be able to get that opportunity.

“Right here and now I’ve been asked to do a very specific job, that job starts in five weeks’ time. There’s no better coaching assignment than to pit yourself against the All Blacks.

“I’ve played and coached in a bunch of Bledisloe Cup games (as A team coach) and to get another crack at the All Blacks is terrific. I’m really looking forward to the challenge of taking them on and from that, good things can flow.”

Deans opted to quit following Saturday’s 41-16 third Test mauling by the Lions which handed the tourists a 2-1 triumph.

Deans led the Wallabies in 74 Tests having been appointed early in 2008.

He said: “I wish to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in Australian rugby for their support through the duration of my tenure. It has been a rewarding five years and I am proud of all we have achieved. Most especially I’d like to thank the players for their efforts and wish them the best going forward.”