Edinburgh confirm departure of head coach Richard Cockerill

Edinburgh have confirmed that head coach Richard Cockerill has made an exit from the club ' by mutual consent'.

Cockerill joined Edinburgh as head coach after working with Leicester Tigers and Toulon ahead of the 2017/18 season and signed a two-year contract extension with the Scottish regional club until the end of the 2022/23 season.

However, Edinburgh had a tough 2020/21 season where they lost 10 out of the 16 games in the Pro14 apart from managing a solitary win from five matches in the Rainbow Cup.

"Having had constructive conversations with Jim Mallinder and Mark Dodson post season it was agreed that we would come to an agreement where I would leave the club by mutual consent to pursue other opportunities," he told the club's official website.

"I would like to thank everyone at Edinburgh Rugby for the hard work they have put in. It has been a rewarding four seasons for the club.

"I would also like to thank all the supporters for everything they have done for me and the team you have been amazing.

"I wish the staff and players all the best for the future and look forward to watching you in your new stadium."

The 50-year-old guided Edinburgh to their first-ever home semi-final during the 2019/20 season of Pro14 and also helped them reach the European Champions Cup quarter-final in 2018/19 season.

Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director Douglas Struth thanked Cockerill for his contribution to the club.

“I would like to thank Richard for all his hard work and commitment to the club throughout his time at Edinburgh Rugby.

“We wish him all the very best in his next challenge.”

Edinburgh also confirmed that assistant coach Calum MacRae and head of strength and conditioning Nick Lumley will be in charge of the club during their pre-season preparations.