Former Cats coach Laurie Mains believes new All Blacks coach John Mitchell has the right qualities to be a success.

Mitchell was on Wednesday appointed to lead the All Blacks through to the 2003 Rugby World Cup, replacing Wayne Smith and Tony Gilbert.

As a player, Mitchell was renowned for his leadership qualities, which Mains (pictured) said would serve him well as a national coach. "I had John as a captain during the All Blacks tour of the United Kingdom in 1993.

"John is a good leader of men, he's tough and single-minded, which are certainly qualities that are required for an All Black coach. He has an expertise in forward play so I think he will be successful and will have the support of the country."

Mitchell has only had one coaching appointment in New Zealand, with this year's Chiefs Super 12 team, but Mains has no doubts about his experience. "He probably hasn't had time to prove himself against some of the other candidates, but you always have to look at the bigger picture.

"He's had plenty of experience with England as assistant coach (1997-2000), so he does know what it is like at international level. Plus he coached Sale for a few years and had one year with the Chiefs."

Mains felt some sympathy for departing head coach Smith, but said he caused his own demise by not immediately declaring his desire to remain in the position during a review last month.

"It is always difficult when someone loses the job that Wayne has had, but obviously his indecision at the time of his review has cost him his job and I think that is understandable."

Mitchell's first mission as All Blacks coach will be a tour of Ireland, Scotland and Argentina in November and December. Incumbent selectors Smith, Gilbert and Peter Thorburn will help decide the make-up of the touring squad, but Mitchell will choose his own coaching assistance.

"There will be a lot of interest in who he appoints as his assistant coach. I think that will be crucial to the success of the coaching staff, said Mains, who once again ruled himself out of having any major involvement.

"I'm not interested in working as an assistant coach, but as I have said all along I am happy to be supportive in the background if someone requires me," he said.

He has some free advice for any Otago players who may feature in Mitchell's plans. "If they ask me about John Mitchell I will certainly tell them he will look for workers," he said. - Sapa