Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards joins Cardiff Blues

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards has joined Cardiff Blues on a consultancy basis.

The 50-year-old has already begun working with the Guinness PRO14 club, taking charge of defensive sessions on a part-time basis as well as a mentoring role.

"Shaun will be a great addition to Cardiff Blues," said head coach Danny Wilson. "His record speaks for itself and I am sure he will have a big impact.

"Defence is an area we have to improve if we want to take the next step and qualify for the European Champions Cup.

"Shaun has an invaluable wealth of experience, which will be hugely beneficial, and will play an important role in developing the defensive coaches and leaders of the future.

"I would also like to thank the Welsh Rugby Union for their support in this appointment."

A rugby league legend, Edwards moved into coaching with Wasps and won four Premiership titles and two European Cups.

Having worked with Warren Gatland at Wasps, they then joined forces with Wales and won three Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams.

"I'm really looking forward to working with Danny Wilson and Cardiff Blues. There's a lot of potential here," Edwards said.

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"For the majority of my time with Wales, Richard Hodges has also been the defence coach for Wales U20s so it will be great to link-up with him again."

The Welsh Rugby Union commented: "We see this move as a hugely positive step forward with the Cardiff Blues region.

"Shaun will provide regular continuity between the senior national management and the coaching set up within the Blues, working alongside Danny and his team.

"We will see this impact across the other regions with our national coaches also working with the Dragons, Scarlets and Ospreys at various junctures throughout the coming season."