Two big name New Zealanders are on the list of candidates to coach Japan's national rugby team.
Reports out of Japan suggest former Crusaders and Wallabies coach Robbie Deans and Super Rugby winning Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph are both on the shortlist.
Kyodo News reports that Joseph, who made 9 appearances for Japan as a player, is a leading candidate, despite the 46-year-old being under contract with the Highlanders through the 2016 Super Rugby season.
Robbie Deans currently coaches Japanese club Panasonic Wild Knights.
The Japanese Rugby Football Union will hold a board meeting on December 17th to pick a candidate.
3 News/RadioLIVE