Leigh Halfpenny rejoins Wales coaching staff

Former Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny has rejoined the national coaching staff on an interim basis ahead of Wales’ July Nations Championship fixtures against Fiji, Argentina and South Africa.

Leigh Halfpenny Joins Wales Coaching Staff

Halfpenny will work with Wales during the upcoming Nations Championship campaign as he continues his transition into coaching after retiring from playing at the end of the season.

The former Wales and British & Irish Lions full-back previously worked with the national side during last summer’s tour of Japan, where he assisted with kicking coaching during the two-Test series in Kitakyushu and Kobe.

Wales Seek Permanent Kicking Coach

Wales are currently looking to appoint a permanent kicking coach and an attacking skills coach as head coach Steve Tandy continues to build his support staff.

Halfpenny is understood to be among those who have shown interest in the kicking coach role. Former Wales players James Hook and Scott Sneddon have also been linked with the position.

Rhys Patchell previously worked with Wales on kicking strategy during the autumn and Six Nations, but he is set to join Benetton as attack coach next season.

Steve Tandy Adds Coaching Support

Tandy said Halfpenny’s playing record and experience would be valuable for the squad, especially the younger backs.

"I’m pleased that Leigh is able to join the coaching team for our three Nations Championship games this July.

"His playing record speaks for itself and it’s great to get him on board with us as he continues to develop his coaching career.

"Our young backs will benefit a huge amount from the knowledge and experience that Leigh has to share."

Halfpenny said it was a huge honour to work with Wales again and described the Nations Championship as an exciting opportunity.

"It’s a huge honour to be asked to work with the men’s national squad again this summer and an exciting opportunity to be part of Steve’s coaching team in the first ever Nations Championship," said Halfpenny.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in Japan last year and I’m looking forward to getting to work with the group and continuing my development as a coach over the next few weeks."

Wales have already added Pete Murchie as defence coach, Dan Lydiate on a full-time basis and Paul James as scrum coach. Full-time appointments for the remaining coaching roles are not expected before the summer fixtures.