London Irish add Corniel van Zyl to coaching panel

London Irish have confirmed the appointment of former Italy international Corniel van Zyl to the coaching panel.

Van Zyl has played eight Tests for Italy that came in 2011 and 2012 and racked up over 150 appearances for Benetton Treviso between 2007 and 2015.

Following his playing career, the 42-year-old joined Free State Cheetahs as forwards coach in 2015 and now will join the Exiles under Declan Kidney.

“I’m really pleased to be here and excited about getting to work with this talented group of players and staff," he told the official website of the club.

“It has always been a goal of mine to coach in the Premiership, so I’m delighted to be a part of the London Irish family.”

Meanwhile, Kidney is pleased with the arrival of van Zyl to the London Irish coaching set up.

“We're delighted Corniel has agreed to join us.

“His experience and know-how will complement the coaching staff that we've already got in place here, building on the excellent work Jonathan Fisher and Ross McMillan have overseen in the forward’s department in recent months.”