One of Dunedin's favourite sons is returning home.
Tony Brown will take up an assistant coaching role with the Highlanders in 2020, the franchise has announced.
The former Highlanders player and head coach is in charge of Japan's Sunwolves this season, but will suit up alongside Aaron Mauger next year, likely as the brains behind the team's attack.
Brown says he's excited about the opportunity to rejoin the franchise where he has so much history.
"The Highlanders are a very special team to me," said Brown. "And the opportunity to be involved again is too good to turn down.
"They are a great team to coach, they play positive footy and next year they have some exciting new talent coming through that I believe I can help develop to the next level."
The 44-year-old is still an assistant coach of the Japanese national side, who he'll oversee at the upcoming Rugby World Cup with head coach Jamie Joseph.
Mauger believes Brown - who's forged a reputation as an innovative offensive mind - will be a huge asset to the squad.
"We're all looking forward to Brownie's return to the 'Landers in 2020," said Mauger.
"His passion for our club and his rugby intellect will no doubt have a massive influence on our growth over the next few years and beyond."
Newshub.
