New Zealand sack assistant coaches John Plumtree and Brad Mooar

New Zealand Rugby has made changes to the coaching panel ahead of the Rugby Championship games against South Africa to be played next month.

Forwards coach John Plumtree and backs coach Brad Mooar have been removed from their roles following the 1-2 series defeat to Ireland.

The result also had high criticism sparked on head coach Ian Foster, who has managed to retain his place along with skipper Sam Cane.

Crusaders and Fiji forwards coach Jase Ryan, who has worked with Scott Robertson will be part of the backroom staff.

“Jason is a proven performer with plenty of experience at international level,” said Foster.

“Last year we witnessed first-hand the impact he has made on Fiji’s forwards, adding to his continual growth as the forwards coach of the Crusaders. His appointment now is clearly with an eye to the future and to (the Rugby World Cup) 2023.”

Meanwhile, former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt will now be an independent selector and will work closely with Foster as they build towards the World Cup next year.

"Joe Schmidt now formally starts his role as independent All Blacks selector," read a statement from the New Zealand board.

"In addition to that, Schmidt has a key analysis role and will work with Foster on overall strategy and attack play."