The Super Rugby defending champions, the Highlanders have confirmed coach Jamie Joseph will leave the franchise at the end of the season to take over as the head coach of Japan.
Joseph led the Highlanders to their maiden Super Rugby title last year, guiding them to a 21‑14 win over the Hurricanes in the final in Wellington.
Joseph has strong ties to Japan having played for them at the 1999 World Cup.
He played 20 tests for the All Blacks between 1992‑1995.
Joseph will be involved in some capacity in Japan's test matches in June during the Super Rugby international break.
Source: Radio NZ
