Pivac to take over as Scarlets boss

Editor

New Zealander Wayne Pivac will take charge of the Scarlets next season after being promoted from assistant coach.

New Zealander Wayne Pivac will take charge of the Scarlets next season after being promoted from assistant coach.

Pivac replaces Simon Easterby, who left the Welsh club this off-season to become Ireland forwards coach, replacing John Plumtree in the national set-up.

Easterby's departure left the Scarlets looking for someone to take on the top job, and Pivac, who had only arrived at the Welsh club in July, has been given the role.

The New Zealander has been coaching back home since 1997, and has previously had stints with Northland, North Harbour and Auckland.

He has also been involved in the Fiji set-up, and was due to join the Scarlets as an assistant to Easterby.

And with Easterby having moved on, Pivac revealed that he is excited to get the chance to lead the Scarlets this season.

“Joining the Scarlets was an exciting challenge for me,” he said.

“I am honoured that the Scarlets have the faith and belief in me to take the squad forward and build on the good work and solid foundations that Simon and his team have put in place.

“The supporters here are probably no different to back in New Zealand. They're very passionate and love their rugby and really want the team to do well. I'm looking forward to hopefully giving them something to cheer about this season.”