Andrew Strawbridge will join Steve Borthwick‘s England coaching staff on a permanent basis as an assistant coach and coaching advisor.
Strawbridge, 59, supported England in the same role for the first four weeks of their Six Nations campaign, and will join up again ahead of their summer tour to Japan and New Zealand.
The Kiwi was skills coach for his native country at the last Rugby World Cup, where they finished as runners-up, and previously served in assistant roles for the Chiefs, New Zealand U20s and Samoa, as well as being head coach and subsequently director of rugby at National Provincial Championship club Waikato.
“Andrew made a huge impression during the time he spent with us at this year’s Six Nations,” said Borthwick.
“From the moment he walked into the environment, I was hugely impressed with his attention to detail, the clarity of his coaching philosophy and the different perspectives he has on the game.
“His extensive coaching experience in Super Rugby and the international arena, as well as his expertise in player development, complements our existing coaching group well.
“I’m excited that he’ll be back with us as we prepare for the summer Tour to Japan and New Zealand.”
The confirmation of Strawbridge’s appointment goes further to help Borthwick cement the coaching team likely to take England through to the next World Cup.
Skills and kicking coach Kevin Sinfield will step down after this year’s summer tour, but with Richard Wigglesworth and Felix Jones locked in to running the attack and defence respectively, England look set to have a consistent backroom team till 2027.
That has been lacking in recent years, and Strawbridge is excited to continue after a satisfying start to his time in the set-up.
He said: “My brief stint with England at the front end of the Six Nations was a nourishing experience and I was impressed with the desire of the group to grow and compete.
“I am immensely proud to be involved in the England coaching group and look forward to playing a part in helping the team achieve its goals.
“I really appreciate the opportunity Steve has afforded me to contribute.”
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