All Blacks confident Mooar will leave Scarlets
NEW Zealand coach Ian Foster is ‘really confident' Scarlets boss Brad Mooar will become part of his coaching team.
The All Blacks and the Welsh region are in talks over the proposed move, which would see Mooar leave Parc y Scarlets at the end of the 2019-20 season.
Foster confirmed talks have taken place. “It's going well,” he said. “We're really confident and hopeful we'll get a solution soon.”
Former Swansea coach John Plumtree has been made New Zealand forwards coach.
Mooar says he is torn between staying with his region or joining New Zealand's backroom staff.
“I am torn, yes, this is tough and both options are outstanding,” said Mooar, below. “It would be a hell of a proud moment (to join the All Blacks staff), it's humbling to be in the conversation.
“The question has been asked, we are grown adults and are having responsible conversations and things will pan out.
“Scarlets is a wonderful place to be and we are enjoying a great rise. The way we are playing the game and the fan base is bigger than one person and it's an exciting time.”
Mooar insisted if he were to take up the New Zealand offer, there would be no lack of focus at the Scarlets for the rest of the season.
“It would not be difficult at all, the focus will remain,” said Mooar.
“We have set a vision and are working together and our noses are in the same direction. I am proud to be here.”
Mooar is in his first season of a three-year deal with Scarlets, having replaced fellow New Zealander Wayne Pivac, who left Parc y Scarlets to take over from Warren Gatland as Wales head coach.
The 45-year-old has made an impressive start with eight wins in his first 11 matches in charge. Mooar was assistant coach at Crusaders for four seasons working under Scott Robertson.
