The 2003 World Cup winner assisted Robbie Deans last season when the Barbarians drew 31-31 with South Africa at Wembley before wins over the Czech Republic (71-0) and Fiji (40-7).

He will also be working alongside Scott Robertson, the Crusaders head coach who claimed the Super Rugby title this summer.

“I’m really looking forward to doing it and it was a great experience working with Robbie last time,” said Greenwood.

“I watched Scott and the Crusaders win Super Rugby, his style is hugely exciting and it’s a great opportunity for me to keep learning.”

Will Greenwood leads a backs meeting in Barbarians training

Greenwood faced New Zealand six times as a player in his distinguished career – four times with England and twice with the British & Irish Lions.

He watched the All Blacks “up close” this summer in the drawn Lions series and the Barbarians will have to be at their very best to emulate their famous victories in 1973 and 2009.

“The Lions and South Africa have given us a bit of insight into how to take them on,” he said.

"You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, you’ve just got to get stuck in, contest hard at the breakdown, have a great scramble defence and even the mighty All Blacks can make mistakes some time.

“They are unbelievably good and playing so well, so it will be a real challenge. And this is not just about wearing the famous Barbarians shirt. England haven’t played them for three years – players just don’t get many chances to play against them – and they’re the best team in the world.”

The Barbarians are in action overseas under Alan Jones against the Classic Wallabies in Lismore (October 24) and Australia in Sydney (October 28).

The second leg under Deans sees them face New Zealand at Twickenham before taking on Tonga at Thomond Park in Limerick (November 10).

The Barbarians women’s team coached by Giselle Mather makes its historic first appearance at Thomond Park against Munster on the same day.