Former B&I Lions star gets a New Zealand gig

NEWS: New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have announced the addition of Māori All Blacks and British and Irish Lions international Riki Flutey to the Black Ferns coaching group.

Flutey has been appointed as Black Ferns Backs and Skills Coach, focusing on growing key concepts and skillsets within their game model.

He brings a wealth of international playing knowledge to his role having debuted for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby in 2002, earning 38 caps over four seasons, and represented the Māori All Blacks (formerly New Zealand Māori) that same year. In 2008, Flutey earned a call-up to the British and Irish Lions and became the first-ever player to play against and then for the Lions on a Southern Hemisphere tour to South Africa in 2009.

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After retiring from playing, Flutey transitioned into coaching and in 2019 joined the Highlanders as their Assistant Coach leading various portfolios. While fulfilling his duties at the Highlanders, he offered his support to the Columba College 1st XV, Columba College Sevens, Otago Women’s Development Team and the University Women’s Premiers.

“Working in women’s rugby teams including the hubs was rewarding; I was able to build meaningful connections which means a lot to me as I’m big on connection.

“It’s truly an honour to now be in this environment with the Black Ferns. I look to use my playing experiences and knowledge wherever I can add value to help grow each individual as we start building towards the Rugby World Cup,” Flutey said.

“A lot of these players here in camp inspired my daughter Madison to play rugby several years ago now. She loves rugby because of them so it’s special to be able to give back directly to those who inspired her through their actions on the field and in the community to grow women’s rugby in Aotearoa.”

Flutey completes the previously announced coaching make-up of Black Ferns Director of Performance Allan Bunting, Tony Christie (Rugby Lead and Attack), Steve Jackson (Defence) and Dan Cron (Forwards).

Black Ferns Director of Performance Allan Bunting highlighted Flutey’s ability to connect with people.

“I believe we’ve got the best people to empower and grow our players. Riki has a special skillset that I know will enhance our group, support our coaches and ensure we grow in certain areas of our game,” Bunting said.

“It’s been special coming together, both players and management, we have an awesome crew. It’s great to have Riki onboard, he has already had an impact, and we are excited about what he will bring.”