Canterbury scrum coach Jason Ryan has been appointed the Black Ferns' new scrum coach and analyst as they head into this year's women's Rugby World Cup.
Ryan has worked with the New Zealand Under-20 team, Brazil Rugby, and the Crusader Knights development team. He also set up the Front Row Club, a coaching programme focused on safe development of props and hookers.
Ryan says he's excited about the new challenge and looking forward to working with the world champion women's team.
"The Black Ferns have such a proud history and it will be an honour to join their coaching team as they work towards defending their World Cup title," he said.
The Black Ferns assemble this month to prepare for the international series in June against Australia, Samoa and Canada. The women's World Cup will take place in France in August.