Highlanders' Joseph heading to Japan?

The former flank, who represented both the All Blacks and the Brave Blossoms at Test level, is reportedly one of the frontrunners to take over the position left vacant by Eddie Jones.

Jones guided Japan to three victories at the recent World Cup in England, and has recently been appointed England coach after initially signing with South African Super Rugby outfit the Stormers.

His replacement will have to build on that success with an eye to the 2019 World Cup being hosted in Japan, and Super Rugby-winning Highlanders coach Joseph is the clear favourite, with an announcement expected as early as Monday.

It is not clear whether the role will see Joseph continue in some capacity with the Highlanders who will be looking to defend their Super Rugby title in 2016, or whether they will be looking for a new coach.

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark issued a statement in response to the ongoing speculation in which he made it clear that there would be no comment until there was an official announcement either way.

“It has always been this organizations policy not to respond to speculative comment on players, or coaches for that matter, coming and going from our club,” he said.