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Source: Photosport -
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Bay of Plenty's coaching structure remains in a state of flux as their provincial rugby season opener approaches, with Greg Smith's future still unresolved.
Smith, who was appointed the Steamers head coach in March, was forced to take leave from the team earlier this week amid rumours of a player revolt and fall out with management.
He remained on the outer when the side had their final intensive training session today ahead of hosting Northland in Rotorua on Friday night.
Smith returned to Hamilton on Monday and Bay of Plenty chief executive Jeremy Curragh confirmed it could be "several days" before the former Waikato and Fiji representative's future was clarified.
Assistant coach Steve Miln and manager/technical adviser Sean Horan ran the practice session on Wednesday before a full-strength team was named.
Curragh denied claims there had been a bust-up at training last week and that player power had been behind Smith's isolation.
"We're looking at a whole gamut of things," he said.
No confirmation
Smith was due to have talks at the union's headquarters in Tauranga, though there was no confirmation they took place.
Relieving Smith of his duties followed Bay of Plenty's fluctuating pre-season form. Quarterfinalists last season, they struggled to beat Counties-Manukau 28-19 before losing 7-35 to Hawke's Bay.
Horan admitted Smith's future had been disrupted but he was confident the team was focused on Northland.
"We're just caretakers at the moment," he said of his combination with Miln.
"We're sticking to the preparation and focusing on the team, nothing else."
The Bay has lost Tanerau Latimer to All Black duty but tearaway flanker Luke Braid is an able replacement.
The loss of Jamie Nutbrown near the end of last season has been offset by the acquisition of Manu Samoa and former North Harbour halfback Junior Poluleuligaga.
Former Kiwis and New Zealand Warriors centre Clinton Toopi's provincial rugby debut has been delayed by a knee injury. He should be available for selection in round three.
