Bristol appoint former England captain Steve Borthwick as forwards coach

Championship club Bristol have announced the appointment of former England captain Steve Borthwick as forwards coach.

Borthwick will link up with Bristol early next month after being part of Japan's coaching team during a memorable Rugby World Cup campaign that featured victories over South Africa, Samoa and the United States.

Japan became the first team in World Cup history to win three pool matches and not qualify for the quarter-finals.

The 36-year-old also skippered Bath and Saracens during a long playing career. He won 57 Test caps.

"I am delighted to welcome someone of Steve's calibre to the coaching set-up at Bristol," Bristol rugby director Andy Robinson told www.bristolrugby.co.uk.

"Steve can bring his experience of winning trophies to our squad, and he will be an asset to the development of our young players."

Borthwick, meanwhile, added: " It's an exciting opportunity for me to work with such a talented group of players.

"Bristol prides itself on the strength and dynamism of the forward pack, and I am eager to continue that philosophy."