Super Rugby 2019: Chiefs duo Sam Cane,Anton Lienert-Brown praise Warren Gatland signing

Chiefs duo Sam Cane and Anton Liernert-Brown have heaped praise on the appointment of Warren Gatland on a four-year deal with the Hamilton-based Super Rugby franchise.

The 55-year-old's heading back to familiar turf in the Waikato, after spending the last 12 years coaching Wales and three tours with the British & Irish Lions - one as an assistant (2009) and two as head coach (2013, 2017).

He replaces Colin Cooper, who had been in charge of the Chiefs for past two seasons.

Gatland, who played 17 times for the All Blacks as hooker, has been tasked with leading the Chiefs to Super Rugby glory, as they seek their first title since their back-to-back wins in 2012-13, with Dave Rennie at the helm.

His deal with the Chiefs will see him take the role for the 2020, 2022 and 2023 seasons, taking a year out to coach the Lions during their 2021 South African tour.

Flanker Cane said the chat among Chiefs players has been positive about the acquisition.

Sam Cane and Anton Liernet-Brown at the All Blacks' Rugby World Cup jersey launch.
Sam Cane and Anton Liernet-Brown at the All Blacks' Rugby World Cup jersey launch. Photo credit: Photosport

"He's known as one of the world's best coaches, and it's cool how he was born and bred in the Waikato, so he's coming home," he told Newshub. 

"I know everyone at the Chiefs is excited to work with him. He's very tough and defensively very strong, so it will be interesting to see what he does when he arrives. 

"It's exciting for us."

Midfielder Liernert-Brown echoed Cane's thoughts.

"I've never had him as a coach, but I've only heard good things," he told Newshub. "A guy who has had success with the British & Irish Lion and Wales can only do good things for the franchise.

"I'm sure he loves the province and that's why he wants to come back, to give back, so hopefully, he'll push us in the right direction to get another title or two.

"I'm very excited he's on board. He's from the region, and will put his best foot forward and kick us up the arse, if he needs too.

The Chiefs have made the Super Rugby playoffs for the last seven years, but haven't made the final since 2013, when they beat the Brumbies.

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Super Rugby 2019: Chiefs duo Sam Cane,Anton Lienert-Brown praise Warren Gatland signing