Kirwan quits Japan job

John Kirwan has decided not to continue as Japan coach when his contract ends in December.

The Japanese Rugby Football Union agreed yesterday not to negotiate for a contract extension.

Kirwan, a key member of the All Blacks team which won the 1987 World Cup, was hired as Japan’s national team advisor in 2006, and became head coach the following year.

In his tenure, including two World Cups, Japan won 31 matches, lost 22, and drew two. Japan’s best results in both World Cups were draws with Canada.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Japan rugby and will always be very proud of the improvements and achievements we have made over the past five years,” said the former Italy coach. “I will always follow the JRFU with interest and remain very grateful for the opportunity to serve Japan.”

The JRFU said the 46-year-old Kirwan, fluent in Japanese, overhauled the team’s game and helped them achieve a best-ever international ranking of No 12 by winning their first Pacific Nations Cup just before the World Cup in New Zealand.

The union was also grateful for Kirwan’s support for the World Cup bids for 2015 and 2019, for which the latter was successful. “John completely devoted himself to build up our national team for the last five years, being committed to Japan rugby and truly in love with the people, culture and history of Japan,” said JRFU president Yoshiro Mori.