Hansen to coach AB's from Dublin pub
Hansen to coach All Blacks, contribute to craic at Dublin bar.
NEWSDESK: All Black coach Steve Hansen announced today he will be coach the All Blacks by video link from Dublin pub Paddy O'Bacon's for match v Ireland on Sunday morning NZ time.
"This isn't about me enjoying three or four pints and the bottomless potato skins special. This is about preparing for a world cup. What if I got trapped in a pub in Japan?" said Hansen.
"The facilities at Paddy's are top class - with nine big screens, I'm sure I'll get a new perspective. Little differences like that can give you an edge in international rugby, and I'm definitely prepared to test the technology," said Hansen.
Publican Desmond McCaravan said "Sure, it's not every day you get an international coach running the game from your bar. The punters will certainly appreciate Mr Hansen's views on the game, and the All Black boys and coaching staff are very welcome to come and drown their sorrows afterwards, ha ha!"
World Rugby gave their approval of Hansen's innovation, and immediately arranged a brewery sponsor to help capture fan content from the pub. While unusual in the modern game, it's not without precedent, with a Scottish coach reported to have spent a tour match v Horowhenua asleep in the club bar in the 1950's.
Thanks for reading
- Richard
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