Former Ospreys boss Steve Tandy has been appointed assistant coach of Scotland ahead of the Six Nations.
He will be responsible for overseeing defence in Gregor Townsend’s management team, taking over that role from Matt Taylor, who is joining the Wallabies set-up.
Tandy, who was Ospreys head coach from 2012 to 2018, joins from Super Rugby side Waratahs, where he has marshalled their ‘blue wall’ defence for the past two seasons.
The 39-year-old ex-flanker played more than 100 games for the Ospreys, transitioning into coaching with Bridgend and then moving up to regional level, winning the PRO12 title in his first season in charge at the Liberty Stadium.
Talking about his new job north of the border, he said: “I see this as a massive opportunity and am very excited to fully immerse myself in Scottish rugby.
“Being part of Super Rugby for the past two seasons has enabled me to gain invaluable experience in different styles of rugby.
“Playing against teams from South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, Argentina and Australia has been an amazing learning opportunity for me and will aide my transition into the international game.
“Defence is a huge part of the game which I am extremely passionate about.
“With my experiences from both the northern and southern hemispheres, I feel I can add to the Scotland set up, moving forward. I cannot wait to start working with Gregor, his coaching team and the players.”
Head coach Townsend commented: “It’s great to bring someone of Steve Tandy’s experience on board.
“He was a successful head coach in the PRO14 and added another impressive dimension to his coaching as an Assistant Coach in Super Rugby, which is a rare move for a northern hemisphere coach.
“He’s passionate about learning and passionate about improving players. We’re looking forward to welcoming him into the wider coaching group. I know he’s keen to get started with this opportunity.”
Also joining the Scotland coaching group in the new year is former France prop Pieter de Villiers, in the role of scrum coach.
He will work with the team through the Six Nations tournament on a short-term contract.
