Former Fiji rugby international Simon Raiwalui has been appointed the new forwards coach of Australia.
The New Zealand-born lock played 43 tests for the Flying Fijians and three for the Pacific Islanders.
Simon Raiwalui played 43 tests for Fiji. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The 43-year-old will start his role with the Wallabies after completing his club duties with French club Biarritz, having previously worked at Racing Metro and Stade Francais.
Raiwalui is a former Australian Schoolboys representative and will join a Wallabies' coaching staff which includes head coach Michael Cheika, Stephen Larkham (attack), Nathan Grey (defence) and Mick Byrne (skills).
"I'm 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 I just couldn't pass up," Raiwalui said.
"I've learned so much about the game in the northern hemisphere and I think it's been crucial for me as a forwards coach.
"There's so much focus on that side of the game in Europe so I hope I can bring home some of those learnings to Australian rugby."
Simon Raiwalui (L) attempts to tackle Scotland's Sean Lamont while playing for the Pacific Islanders in 2006. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Michael Cheika said there had been a quality group of Australian and overseas candidates for the role from local and overseas Super Rugby teams, as well as from France and England.
"We had the luxury of taking our time to ensure we had a lot of detail in our selection process and the final choice of Simon was very clear for us," Cheika said.
"His quality of character, along with his technical detail and passion for Australia was a mix that proved a very potent argument for his selection."
- AAP
