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Hammett appointed Blues' new boss
May 19, 2014
Mark Hammett is yet to take the Hurricanes to the Super Rugby play-offs © Getty Images
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The Cardiff Blues have confirmed the appointment of ex-Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett as director of rugby on a three-year deal.

Hammett will link-up with the Blues after the culmination of the Super Rugby season and he will bring a wealth of experience to the region having won 29 caps for the All Blacks and coached the Hurricanes since 2011.

He will work with Dale McIntosh and Paul John at the Blues and Blues CEO Richard Holland revealed Warren Gatland helped their recruitment process.

"Chief [Dale McIntosh] and Johnsy [Paul John] have done a terrific job over the last few months and I know they are looking forward to working with Mark. They will form a strong partnership and we are excited to see that take the region forward," Holland said. "I have met Mark and he was the outstanding coach and person for the role. We believe his long-term vision for the Blues will take us to the next level and achieve our ambitions.

"We've made strong signings with New Zealand international Jarrad Hoeata, Italian back row Manoa Vosawai, Craig Mitchell, Josh Turnbull, Tavis Knoyle, George Watkins and Ieuan Jones joining us. We're working hard on more signings and are positive about the way they will work with our talented existing squad under the guidance of Mark Hammett. It has always been our commitment as a region to be sustainable off the field and a competitive and successful on it.

"We've made the business sustainable since the return to the Arms Park and now, under the leadership of Mark Hammett, we believe the Blues can start to once again look forward to a bright future."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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