Saints appoint Anderson

The other front-runner for the post, former New Zealand centre James Leuluai withdrew his application.

McClennan, who was previously Anderson's assistant, has been signed to an initial one-year contract.

His position will be reviewed after the Tri-Nations series featuring New Zealand, Australia and Great Britain which begins in October.

McClennan insisted his lack of top-level experience - he has neither coached nor played in the NRL - would not be an impediment to success in the New Zealand role.

"I'm confident in my own ability," said McClennan.

"I can see where that could be a concern for the public and possibly a handful of players.

"But it's up to me to get the trust of the players and I'm sure that will happen."

The 43-year-old, whose first match in charge will be the opening Tri-Nations Test against Australia in October, is the son of former Kiwis and St Helens full-back Mike McClennan.

Sel Bennett, who headed the New Zealand Rugby League selection panel, said the decision was made easier following Leuluai's withdrawal.

"We were looking for a New Zealand coach and we've found one," said Bennett.

"We're confident he will carry off the Tri-Nations series and we will go ahead from there."

The other short-listed candidates were former Test lock Tawera Nikau and Auckland Rugby League coaching and development manager Stan Martin.