Italy have sacked coach Brad Johnstone and replaced him with fellow New Zealander John Kirwan, the Italian Rugby Federation announced today.
"Johnstone is no longer coach of Italy and the post has been given to John Kirwan," a Federation spokesman confirmed.
Johnstone, who took over as Italy coach from Georges Coste in January 2000, has faced strong criticism from the press throughout his reign, which brought just five victories in 27 games.
Italy finished bottom of the 2002 Six Nations and have lost their last 14 matches in the competition.
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Johnstone, who previously coached Fiji, said after the 45-9 defeat by England earlier this month he expected to be fired.