Former Ireland international Simon Easterby will take Andy Farrell’s place as Ireland’s head coach on an interim basis as Farrell leads the Lions tour of Australia next summer.
Easterby, who has been involved in the Ireland set-up extensively in recent years, will take over the job on December 1 and will oversee the team’s defence of their Six Nations title.
The former Scarlets player played for Ireland 65 times over the space of eight years and has most recently been the national side’s forwards and defence coach.
“To be asked to lead the Ireland team is a huge honour and one that I am thrilled to accept,” Easterby commented.
“It is the highest achievement of my coaching career to date and I’m looking forward to working with the talented backroom team and players while Andy is away with the British and Irish Lions.”
“I have greatly enjoyed being a part of the Men’s National Team journey over the last 10 years and I believe that there are even brighter days ahead as we build towards a huge few months.
“There’s a lot to play for before December and we’re looking forward to providing the next crop of future Irish players with a chance to impress against talented international opponents in South Africa and then across the four Autumn Nations Series matches at Aviva Stadium.”
David Humphreys, the IRFU’s head of performance, said: “Today’s announcement ensures a smooth transition and continuity as Ireland looks to build towards an exciting few months ahead.
“Over the last decade, Simon has moved from Forwards Coach to Defence Coach and he has played a key role in Ireland’s success during that time.”
Ireland’s next international fixture is against the All-Blacks in Dublin on November 8, with further fixtures planned against Argentina, Fiji and Australia in the Autumn Nations series.
