Former All Blacks scrum coach joins Auckland outfit

“There’s been a bit of movement in Super Rugby coaching circles after the World Cup so when the opportunity at the Blues came up, I jumped at the chance,” Feek said of his appointment.

“What really excites me is the chance to work with some of the younger Blues boys. The likes of Joshua Fusitu’a and PJ Sheck are at the start of their Super Rugby journeys, and it’s my job to come in and help them improve.

“There’s also guys like Ofa [Tuungafasi] and Gus [Ta’avao] who I’ve worked with previously, so it will be nice to go in with some established relationships.”

Established relationships in the coaching box as well as on the field, as new Blues head coach Vern Cotter was forwards coach at the Crusaders while Feek was finishing his playing career there in 2005.

“I’ve played under Vern and coached against him in the Six Nations when I was with Ireland. I have a lot of respect for him and I’m looking forward to working with him as a coach.

“Similarly, I’ve played with and against (Blues assistant coaches) Jason O’Halloran, Paul Tito and Craig McGrath. It’s great to be able to reconnect and give back to the game we love.”