Richie Murphy has been confirmed as the new Ireland U20 head coach.
He replaces Kieran Campbell, who confirmed he was stepping down last week after barely three-months in the job.
Murphy has served as the Ireland senior squad's skills and kicking coach since 2013, a role he'll keep alongside the U20 gig.
His first task is to ready the squad for this year's delayed U20 Six Nations, which is due to get underway - in a condensed fashion - in June.
"It’s an exciting role that will allow me to fulfil a wider coaching brief and drive talent development across the pathway," Murphy said.
"There are challenges within the pathway specifically in specialised positions and the task is to ensure that they have the skills, temperament and game appreciation to excel in the professional game at both provincial and national level.”
The IRFU's Performance Director David Nucifora added, "Richie has a wealth of experience at the very highest level of the game and knows what it takes to deliver success in the senior international and provincial game.
"The Under-20s programme is a hugely important benchmark for our pathway players but it is also vital that the system keeps producing and supporting talent and this will be key focus of Richie’s role.”
Senior head coach Andy Farrell also welcomed Murphy's appointment, saying, "It will be important for us that Richie remains connected to the national team coaching group as his expertise and experience are of great benefit to the players.
"However it is a great opportunity for him in a head coach role and to be working with the next generation coming through in a full-time capacity .
"We have always had a strong relationship with the U20s squad and Richie’s appointment will only strengthen that connection."
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