Andrew Goodman to replace Mike Catt as Ireland back coach

Ireland have confirmed that Andrew Goodman will replace Mike Catt as the new backs coach at the end of the current season.

Goodman spent time as head coach of Tasman in the Bunnings NPC and assistant coach of the Crusaders in Super Rugby before joining Leinster as an assistant coach.

He also worked with Samoa in the recently concluded Rugby World Cup in France.

He has signed a three-year contract with the IRFU which means he will remain in the backroom staff headed by Andy Farrell until the end of 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The 41-year-old will take the role when Catt departs at the end of Ireland's summer tour of South Africa.

“This has obviously been a very difficult decision to make in one way because I have loved coming back to Leinster,” said Goodman.

“A team that I loved playing with and a team that I love coaching.

“I’d like to thank Leo [Cullen] for the opportunity to come back and to make Dublin our family home, and I’d like to thank the players, the coaches, the staff and everyone based in UCD, for the welcome they have given myself, Nina and the kids.”

IRFU performance director David Nucifora is confident that Goodman's experience will benefit Ireland.

“It was clear from the recruitment process that Andrew was a high-calibre candidate and we are delighted that he will continue his journey in Irish rugby over the coming years.

“He brings a wealth of experience of the Irish and international systems and has packed a significant amount into a relatively young coaching career. His familiarity with the existing system here, coupled with his knowledge of the global game, will greatly add to our environment.”