Jonathan Thomas has been confirmed as part of Warren Gatland's coaching ticket, with the former back-row taking over as a contact area coach.
The role was vacated by Gareth Williams last summer, who left to become the Scarlets' defence coach. Wayne Pivac opted not to appoint a replacement, despite citing the role as an important one, for the autumn campaign, which would ultimately be his last in charge of Wales.
Before Williams, former Wales captain Sam Warburton had briefly held the role. Now ex-Worcester Warriors head coach Thomas, who won 67 caps for Wales between 2003 and 2011, will take over the role.
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Speaking about his appointment, Thomas said: “I’m delighted and honoured to be part of the coaching team. As a passionate Welshman my dream and ambition growing up was to play for Wales. Since finishing playing and going into coaching my ambition has been to become part of the international coaching set-up. Being successful and inspiring our great country is what it’s all about and I’m determined to support and help make a difference to the players and staff.”
After finishing a player career which saw him represent Swansea, Ospreys and Worcester, he went into coaching with Bristol as defence and forwards coach. He had most recently been working as a forwards consultant for Ealing Trailfinders.
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