BaaBaas coaches reunite for All Blacks encounter

WILL Greenwood has been added to the Barbarians coaching team for the Killik Cup match against New Zealand at Twickenham on November 4.

The World Cup winner assisted Robbie Deans last season when the Barbarians drew 31-31 with South Africa at Wembley before wins over the Czech Republic and Fiji.

He will also be working alongside Scott Robertson, the Crusaders head coach who claimed the Super Rugby title this summer.

Greenwood said: “I’m really looking forward to doing it. It was a great experience working with Robbie last time.

“I watched Scott and the Crusaders win Super Rugby, his style is hugely exciting and it’s a great opportunity for me to keep learning.”

Greenwood faced New Zealand six times as a player in his distinguished career – four times with England and twice with the British & Irish Lions.

He watched the All Blacks “up close” this summer in the drawn Lions series and the Barbarians will have to be at their very best to emulate famous victories in 1973 and 2009.

“The Lions and South Africa have given us a bit of insight into how to take them on,” he said.

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, you’ve just got to get stuck in, contest hard at the breakdown, have a great scramble defence and even the mighty All Blacks can make mistakes some time.

“They are unbelievably good and playing so well, so it will be a real challenge. And this is not just about wearing the famous Barbarians shirt. England haven’t played New Zealand for three years – players just don’t get many chances to play against them – and they’re the best team in the world.”

The Barbarians are in action against the Classic Wallabies in Lismore (October 24) and Australia in Sydney (October 28). After playing New Zealand they face Tonga at Thomond Park on November 10.

The Barbarians women’s team coached by Giselle Mather make their historic first appearance at Thomond Park against Munster on the same day.