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BRISBANE. — Australia rugby coach Ewen McKenzie resigned following their 29-28 defeat by New Zealand in Brisbane. McKenzie oversaw defeats in Australia’s past three games and leaves less than a year before the World Cup. The 49-year-old was also under pressure because of a row over offensive text messages back Kurtley Beale allegedly sent about a team official in June.

“My intention was to resign win, lose or draw,” McKenzie said. “I’ve been unhappy with a bunch of things.”
McKenzie, who took over from Robbie Deans 15 months ago, added: “The easiest thing for me is to exit stage left.

“I’ll leave you guys to speculate or ponder, I’ll write a chapter in my book.”
Australian Rugby Union (ARU) chief executive Bill Pulver said: “I did not ask Ewen to resign, but understand his decision.”
Australia take on Wales, France, Ireland and England in November. — BBC Sport.