Former All Blacks and Crusaders midfielder Aaron Mauger

Mauger to coach Highlanders

The Dunedin-based franchise confirmed Mauger as Tony Brown's replacement at their headquarters on Tuesday morning. 

The 36-year-old has signed a three-year deal and beat out fellow Cantabrian Mark Hammett for the top job.

Mauger, who played 46 tests and 89 Super games, signed on as an assistant coach in May, about a month before long-time Highlanders assistant coach Scott McLeod was confirmed as the All Blacks' new defence coach.