Nerush resigns as Russia head coach

Russia head coach Nikolay Nerush resigned from his post after the team's 68-22 defeat by Australia at Nelson's Trafalgar Park on Saturday.

Nerush, whose team lost all four of their Pool C matches, said Russia's results at Rugby World Cup 2011 had no bearing on his resignation.

“I took this decision a long time ago," he said. "Even if we won the Webb Ellis Cup I would not have changed my mind.

“When I took up the team in 2009, our main target was to qualify for the Rugby World Cup. We have accomplished this goal, so I deem my job to be done.

“Now it’s time to step aside as new people should come to the team to bring new emotions and energy. Our team should move forward.”

Nerush, 51, said he would continue to coach Russian side VVA-Podmoskovye, for whom 14 members of his squad at RWC 2011 play.

“The national championship has not yet finished in Russia. Once it comes to an end I will decide what my next occupation will be," he added.

“I have a few options to choose from but do not wish to speak about them at this time.

“What I am confident about right now is that it is important to develop young talent in Russia. I have enough energy and experience to run some rugby project on my own."