Kiwis coach Kidwell picks cup assistants

Aug 21, 2017 - 4:25 AM Experienced former NRL coach Brian Smith will be part of New Zealand's campaign at this year's World Cup.

He has been named as one of coach David Kidwell's two assistants, with the role of technical advisor.

Smith was in charge of 675 NRL matches, 244 of which were with Parramatta, and he also had stints in the UK Super League.

Penrith NSW Cup coach Garth Brennan is also joining the New Zealand backroom staff.

Kidwell says the pair have the skills and depth to be a good fit for the Kiwis.

"They also share my approach to standards and values, and they are really fizzing to be part of our set-up," he said.

The NZRL also announced the addition of Hugh McGahan to the selection panel of Kidwell, Tawera Nikau and Tony Iro.

The Kiwis' first match of the tournament is against Samoa in Auckland on October 28.

Source: AAP