Rugby: Ex-captain Sam Warburton joins Wales coaching staff

Sam Warburton.
Sam Warburton. Photo credit: Getty

Wales have announced former internationals Sam Warburton and Byron Hayward have joined Wayne Pivac's coaching team.

Warburton, 31, will serve as technical advisor defence/breakdown while Hayward was named defence coach.

"I'm delighted to bring both Byron and Sam into the setup and add to what is already a vastly experienced coaching team," said Pivac. 

"Both individuals are highly respected, knowledgeable and experienced in their disciplines and will add a great deal to the environment."

Warburton, who earned 74 Wales caps, said it was a "genuine privilege" to be considered for the role.

"I can't wait to do my upmost to contribute to help improve the team and players."

Hayward previously had a stint as Wales under-20 head coach and was also their national academy skills coach before joining the Scarlets as their defence coach in 2014.

"Wayne has put together a coaching team with a wealth of experience and knowledge, and it will bring variety on and off the field, and I'm excited about what lies ahead," he said.

Wales finished fourth at the Rugby World Cup in Japan earlier this month.

Reuters