Former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has been added to the Wales coaching staff as they begin a new era under Wayne Pivac.

Warburton will serve as a technical adviser in defence and at the breakdown, joining defence coach and ex-flyhalf Byron Haward as new additions to the Welsh coaching staff.

‘I’m delighted to bring both Byron and Sam into the set-up and add to what is already a vastly experienced coaching team,’ Pivac said. ‘Both individuals are highly respected, knowledgeable and experienced in their disciplines and will add a great deal to the environment.

‘Sam is one of the most experienced leaders in rugby with excellent knowledge and communication skills and having only recently retired, he has a full grasp on the international game.

‘We looked at the coaching structure and the roles of each coach and believed by adding a second defensive role into the team adds value, adds a point of difference and allows a specialist to work in the contact area and I believe Byron and Sam will complement each other in the roles.’

The pair join Stephen Jones, Jonathan Humphreys and Neil Jenkins, who are retained in the backroom team from the one that coached under Warren Gatland.

The 31-year-old Warburton won 74 Wales caps and five for the British & Irish Lions, before being forced into retirement due to a string of injuries.

‘It is a genuine privilege to be considered for such a role,’ Warburton said.

‘I can’t wait to do my utmost to contribute to help improve the team and players. With such a great group of players and management it is an amazing opportunity which I am very proud to be given.’

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