WELLINGTON, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Former Samoa coach Alama Ieremia has been tasked with attempting to turn around the fortunes of New Zealand's largest provincial union Auckland after signing a three-year contract on Monday. Ieremia, who played for both Samoa and the All Blacks in the 1990s, replaces Nick White after Auckland narrowly escaped being relegated from the top-tier of New Zealand's semi-professional provincial competition this year. The 47-year-old, who was also an assistant coach at the Wellington Hurricanes from 2009-14, left the Samoa role midway through this year. "Alama Ieremia ... has a clear vision and professional attitude which will position him well in leading the future success of the team," Auckland Rugby chief Jarrod Bear said in a statement on Monday. They have struggled in recent years, however, and not won the provincial title since 2007, when they were led by current Bristol coach Pat Lam.

Source: Economic Times December 11, 2017 05:26 UTC