Rugby: Former All Black Ross Filipo appointed Māori All Blacks coach against Japan XV

Former All Blacks lock Ross Filipo has been appointed Māori All Blacks coach against Japan XV in June, taking over from Chiefs boss Clayton McMillan.

Filipo was part of the Māori team that defeated the touring British & Irish Lions for the first time in 2005 and was subsequently called up for the national team for four games in 2007/08.

He played for Marlborough, Wellington and Hawke's Bay across his provincial career, while turning out for the Crusaders and Chiefs in Super Rugby.

Since his retirement, Filipo, 45, has coached Waikato to the 2021 National Provincial Championship and currently assists McMillan at the Chiefs.

"When I received the news that I was successful, I was excited about the opportunity to again add to the legacy of the Māori All Blacks, but in a coaching capacity," he said.

"I understand there is a huge responsibility attached to this role and will do my absolute best to ensure our traditions are protected and preserved. I also hope to inspire young Māori with our onfield performances." 

Filipo will be assisted by two other former All Blacks, winger Roger Randle and prop Greg Feek.

The Māori side last took the field against Ireland in 2022, beating the tourists 32-17 at Hamilton, but falling 30-24 at Wellington.

They take on Japan XV in two games at Tokyo on June 29 and July 6.

Former All Blacks lock Ross Filipo has been appointed Māori All Blacks coach against Japan XV in June, taking over from Chiefs boss Clayton McMillan.

Filipo was part of the Māori team that defeated the touring British & Irish Lions for the first time in 2005 and was subsequently called up for the national team for four games in 2007/08.

He played for Marlborough, Wellington and Hawke's Bay across his provincial career, while turning out for the Crusaders and Chiefs in Super Rugby.

Since his retirement, Filipo, 45, has coached Waikato to the 2021 National Provincial Championship and currently assists McMillan at the Chiefs.

"When I received the news that I was successful, I was excited about the opportunity to again add to the legacy of the Māori All Blacks, but in a coaching capacity," he said.

"I understand there is a huge responsibility attached to this role and will do my absolute best to ensure our traditions are protected and preserved. I also hope to inspire young Māori with our onfield performances." 

Filipo will be assisted by two other former All Blacks, winger Roger Randle and prop Greg Feek.

The Māori side last took the field against Ireland in 2022, beating the tourists 32-17 at Hamilton, but falling 30-24 at Wellington.

They take on Japan XV in two games at Tokyo on June 29 and July 6.

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