Jono Gibbes appointed Ulster head coach for next season

Former New Zealand international Jono Gibbes has been announced as the new head coach of Ulster for the start of the next season.

Gibbes, who has featured in eight Tests for All Blacks during 2004/05 is currently the forwards coach of Clermont Auvergne and also has the experience of working with Leinster in a similar role.

He has also captained Waikato, Chiefs and Maori All Blacks during his career and has signed a two-year deal with Ulster replacing Neil Doak.

The 40-year-old insisted that he was impressed by the talent and strength of Ulster squad and had high regards for director of rugby Les Kiss.

"The respect that I have for Les (Kiss), as a coach and as a person, was one of my main reasons for making this decision. He really sold his vision of where he wants to take Ulster over the next few years.

"Ulster is a team that I know well, having come up against them on a number of occasions. The Clermont-Ulster games this season gave me an insight into the strengths of the squad and it's exciting to think that I'll be part of that environment from next season.

"With six years at Leinster and three years at Clermont in the Top 14, I've been afforded many different experiences, working with some very talented coaches and players. I hope to apply what I've learned to the role at Ulster and my family and I are looking forward to integrating into a strong community in Belfast."