New Zealand Rugby

Fatialofa's Worcester club released a statement saying the former Hurricanes lock was still in the Intensive Care Unit at St Mary's Hospital in London but was in a stable condition following his operation on Tuesday (NZT).

"Warriors lock Michael Fatialofa is resting and recovering in St Mary's Hospital in Paddington having undergone surgery last night to relieve pressure on his spinal cord caused by swelling," the statement said.

"The operation was a success and Michael is stable, but he remains in a serious condition and is receiving on-going care.

Not much roving, however, was required for the All Blacks new head coach to pinpoint who he wanted.

As widely signalled, the appointment of the Hurricanes' John Plumtree, former All Blacks prop Greek Feek and incumbent defence coach Scott McLeod was confirmed.

Former Crusaders assistant Brad Mooar is expected to complete the coaching team, with New Zealand Rugby locked in negotiations for his release from Welsh Club Scarlets.

Foster said he decided on the trio he could confirm thus far using two clear criteria.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is set to step down after Friday's third-place match against Wales in Tokyo after the two-time defending world champions were stunned by England in the semi-final.

Gatland is also poised to depart Wales following 12 years in charge as he prepares to coach the Lions in South Africa in 2021, while he has also signed on to lead Super Rugby outfit the Chiefs on a four-year deal.

Tew, who will also vacate his position at the end of the year, poured cold water on the prospect of the 56-year-old New Zealander replacing Hansen.

Deans, a halfback who played 10 tests between 1987 and 1989, is understood to have lost his battle with cancer on late Thursday.

A tough halfback who represented Canterbury during its famous Ranfurly Shield reign between 1982-85, Deans was respected for his uncompromising attitude and work-rate around the field.

Although a member of the All Blacks squad that won the inaugural World Cup tournament that was held in New Zealand and Australia in 1987, Deans was unable to get a start ahead of captain David Kirk in any games.

He had been suffering from cancer.

Sir Brian's wife, Lady Pam, and the couple's three children said they were mourning, but were relieved his suffering had ended. They wanted to express their gratitude for the care and support the family has received since Sir Brian's diagnosis.

New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said Sir Brian passed away surrounded by family.

"We have lost a genuine legend of our country, an unwavering figure on the field, and a highly respected figure off it," Mr Tew said.

The brainchild of Perth billionaire Andrew Forrest, Global Rapid Rugby is set to launch next year with teams from Australia, Fiji, Hong Kong, Samoa and Singapore confirmed for this year's series of exhibition matches between March and August.

Pukekohe's Navigation Homes Stadium is set to host Kafiga Samoa and Fijian Latui on June 7.

The two sides will be joined by the Western Force in a Pacific Showcase which starts in Suva next month.

The former All Blacks fullback has made the decision following medical advice, as a long-term knee injury hasn't allowed him to train and play at an elite level.

Dagg played 66 tests for the All Blacks over an eight year period, last featuring internationally in the test against Argentina in New Plymouth in September 2017.

He also played 89 matches for the Crusaders, 25 games for the Highlanders and made 50 appearances for his beloved Hawke's Bay Magpies.

The Crusades were a series of religious and political wars between Christians and Muslims fought in the 11th and 13th centuries.

There has been debate over the appropriateness of the Crusaders name following the Christchurch mosque terror attack and the organisation has said it would review the name at some stage in the future.

New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said it had already had discussions with the franchise, but would not put a timeframe on any possible name change.

Jones, 53, was voted on to the NZR Board of Directors after being nominated by the Tasman Rugby Football Union.

The 55-Test cap former All Black headed off Dame Annette King in replacing outgoing member Glenn Wahlstrom on the 12-person Board.

NZR Chair Brent Impey said Jones would add considerable mana, knowledge and expertise to the table.

"Sir Michael has already made an immense contribution to New Zealand rugby both as a player at every level, and as a leader in the community.

Sidelined All Blacks flanker Jerome Kaino isn't guilty of misconduct, but he needs to sort out his private life, New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew says.

Kaino's absence from the All Blacks amidst allegations of an affair was raised as Tew fronted the news media to discuss the findings of the Respect and Responsibility report commissioned by the national body and unveiled in Auckland on Thursday.