New Zealand's World Cup-winning coach Graham Henry joins IRB committee

Henry, a former Wales coach who guided the All Blacks to their triumph on home soil last year (AP)

New Zealand's World Cup-winning coach Graham Henry has replaced South Africa's Jake White on an influential International Rugby Board panel.

Henry, a former Wales coach who guided the All Blacks to their triumph on home soil last year, has accepted an invitation to join the governing body's rugby committee.

The body plays a key role in recommending policy regarding players' welfare, the laws, playing trends and coaching techniques.

"Rugby is a sport that is constantly evolving on and off the field and with that come challenges," said Henry, selected as a five-time IRB coach of the year in the last eight years.

"As a coach I have experienced the evolution first hand. I am now looking forward to using my experience to continue to contribute to the game through the committee."

White stepped down after three years on the committee because of his Super Rugby coaching commitments.

PA