Former Flying Fijians forwards coach, Jason Ryan is the new All Blacks forwards and assistant coach.

All Blacks head coach Ian Foster has announced changes to his coaching group ahead of the Rugby Championship.

Forwards coach John Plumtree and backs coach Brad Mooar have now parted ways with the All Blacks.

Foster says Ryan is a proven performer with plenty of experience at international level where they witnessed first-hand the impact he has made on the Flying Fijians forwards, adding to his continual growth as the forwards coach of the Crusaders.

Meanwhile, Joe Schmidt will formally start his role as independent All Blacks selector. In addition to that, Schmidt has a key analysis role and will work with Foster on overall strategy and attack play.

Foster will resume leading the backs in the short term.

Source: allblacks.com