Harlequins confirm Nick Easter's departure ahead of new season

Harlequins have confirmed that former England international Nick Easter will leave his role as defence coach of the club with immediate effect due to "personal reasons".

Easter, who has played 54 Tests for England joined Harlequins in 2004 and became the most capped player for club in the professional era with 233 appearances.

Following his retirement, the 39-year-old became the defence coach of the Twickenham Stoop outfit in 2016 under John Kingston, who will be replaced by Paul Gustard ahead of the new season.

"Transferring his playing knowledge to coaching very well he was a popular and dedicated member of the team," a Quins statement said.

"Harlequins would like to thank Nick for his contribution, innovation and hard work in this role and wish him well in his promising coaching career."

Earlier, forwards coach Graham Rowntree decided to leave the club for personal reasons last month while skills coach Collin Osborne is set to make an exit in July.

Harlequins will kick-start the 2018/19 season of Gallagher Premiership with a clash against Sale Sharks on 1st September at Twickenham Stoop.