The Wallabies' hunt for a forwards coach is over, with former Fiji international Simon Raiwalui named to take on the task through to the end of 2019.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika had kept his cards close to his chest in the hunt for a replacement for Mario Ledesma, who took the reins of the Jaguares in Super Rugby this year, with a number of international and Australian coaches in the mix, before Raiwalui's appointment was announced this morning.
Born in New Zealand and educated in Australia, Raiwalui played Australian schoolboys the lock tallied 46 Test caps for Fiji, as well as a decorated playing career in the UK and France, captaining English side Saracens.
Raiwalui joined the coaching ranks at French powerhouse Racing 92 in 2012, before switching to their Top 14 rivals Stade Francais in 2014, and moving to Biarritz this season.
The 43-year-old will join the Wallabies at the end of Biarritz's season, ahead of their June Series against Ireland.
Rawalui say he is very excited to move back to Australia and the chance to work alongside Michael Cheika, Stephen Larkham, Mick Byrne and Nathan Grey was one that he just could not pass up.
Cheika said Raiwalui's appointment was ultimately a simple decision.
[Source: rugby.com.au]
