Easterby leaves Scarlets to become Ireland forwards coach

Simon Easterby will replace John Plumtree as Ireland‘s new forwards coach after two years spent in charge at Scarlets.
The 38 year-old returns to his homeland where he earned 65 caps on the blindside of the scrum, but described the decision to leave the Welsh region as an ’emotional’ one.
The Irishman guided Scarlets to 6th place in last season’s Pro12 and was thankful to the board for permitting his move from club rugby to international.
“I am very grateful to the Scarlets board for allowing this to happen and for respecting and supporting my ambition and development as a coach at international level,” Easterby said.
“It’s a huge opportunity for me in Ireland and one I am very excited about, but it’s been a very emotional decision to leave the region that has been such a major part of my rugby career.”
Scarlets’ Chief Executive Mark Davies added: “We were aware that both Joe Schmidt and the IRFU had identified Simon some time ago and as a result of his and the Scarlets progress over the last two seasons, this chance has come his way.”
ADAM ELLIS