Former All Black coach chasing Super 14 coaching job

SYDNEY (AFP) - Former All Black coach John Mitchell has signalled his intention to coach Australia's new Super 14 rugby franchise by hiring a manager to push his case.
Mitchell, who coached New Zealand to the semi-finals of last year's World Cup here, has appointed Australian-based management group The Fordham Company to help tout his wares.
Mitchell wants rugby administrators in Melbourne and Perth to know he is available to be their head coach of the new Australian Super 14 franchise.
The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) will make an announcement between Melbourne and Perth next month in time to prepare for the 2006 season.
"Coaching in Australia is certainly one of my preferred options," Mitchell said in a statement on Wednesday. "I clearly see my future as an international coach being outside New Zealand."
Prior to his All Blacks appointment Mitchell was England's assistant coach to Clive Woodward for three years.

11/17/2004 - 11:07 GMT - AFP