Thursday 28 April 2016 14:28, UK
England Rugby has announced Neal Hatley will join Eddie Jones' coaching staff as scrum coach at the end of the season.
Hatley joins the England set-up from Bath Rugby, where he has been working as scrum and defence coach since 2012.
Prior to that, the 46-year-old former prop was head of London Irish's academy and scrum coach, a position he took up after he retired from the professional game in 2007.
Hatley will work two days a week with the England team and the rest of his time will be spent working in the RFU's player development pathway.
"This is a very exciting time to be joining the England setup," he said. "There is an enormous amount of talent in English rugby and I can't wait to get started.
"I have always had an ambition to coach at an international level and I'm delighted that Eddie has given me this opportunity.
"I have greatly enjoyed my time at Bath Rugby and I would like to thank Bruce Craig and Mike Ford for the chance to work with a great group of players and staff. It has been a fantastic experience and I wish the club and the fans every success for the future."
Commenting on the appointment, England head coach Jones said, "We're delighted to have brought Neal into the coaching team. Successful English rugby teams have always had strong, powerful, dominant scrums so this is an important appointment.
"Neal is an experienced coach and has impressed me with the work he has done in English rugby. I've no doubt he is the type of character who will thrive in an international environment.
"He's a great addition to the team and will compliment Steve and Paul very well. We're looking forward to working with him ahead of the game against Wales and the tour to Australia."
During a playing career that spanned 17 years, Hatley represented Western Province, Natal Sharks and London Irish. He also played for and captained England Saxons.
