All Blacks assistant coach Steve Hansen has added his name to the mix for the Crusaders' coach's job, confident he can take on both rugby roles.

Hansen confirmed he was seeking to succeed Robbie Deans at the Crusaders while maintaining his role as the forwards coach with the All Blacks.

"What I'd like to do is do both jobs," he told Radio Sport.

"It's an opportunity for me to do a bit of head coaching if I got the job and also keep my role with the All Blacks. I really enjoy coaching with Wayne (Smith) and Graham (Henry) - it just allows you to have further challenges, that's why we coach."

Deans' assistant Mark Hammett and Tasman's Todd Blackadder were earlier considered as the main contenders to take over the Crusaders.

With Hansen's name now in the ring, his experience would seem to overshadow the other two.

"I've put my name in the hat and I'm in discussions with both, mainly with the New Zealand Rugby Union to establish whether they're happy with me to do both roles," Hansen said.

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