Kirwan wants time time to consider future role

NAPIER, New Zealand (AP) — John Kirwan is in no hurry to make a decision over his future role in rugby.

Kirwan has been in charge of the Japan national team since 2007 and his contract is up for renewal at the end of 2011.

Japan's Rugby World Cup campaign came to an end with Tuesday's 23-23 draw with Canada, leaving it without a win at the tournament since 1991. Japanese media reports after the match quoted Japan rugby general manager Osamu Ota as saying it was time to look for new leadership.

Kirwan told The Associated Press that "I'll make some decisions after the World Cup" because "I don't want to take anything away from this tournament."

Should he leave Japan, Kirwan hinted at a future in international, rather than club rugby.