Briefs

Coaches named

The Manawatu Rugby Union have named Mike Pettman and John Kendal as the coaches of the Manawatu women’s sevens team. The duo will be tasked with defending the national title the side won in 2016. Former coach Wesley Clarke withdrew himself for contention for the position due to his commitments with the Black Ferns and Feilding High School. The first major hit-out for the women’s team is the Central sevens competition in December.