Shaun Edwards to work with Cardiff Blues on a consultancy basis

Wales assistant coach Shaun Edwards will join Cardiff Blues on a part-time consultant role as defence coach.

The 50-year-old has been working with Wales since 2008 and during his stint the team has registered victories on three occasions in 2008, 2012 and 2013 with two being a Grand Slam.

Edwards also helped London Wasps to three successive Premiership titles in 2003, 2004 and 2005 and also two Heineken Cups in 2004 and 2007 when he was in charge of the club.

Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson is confident that Edwards' appointment will benefit the club in their goal.

"Shaun will be a great addition to Cardiff Blues; his record speaks for itself and I am sure he will have a big impact," said Wilson.

"Defence is an area we have to improve if we want to take the next step and qualify for the European Champions Cup.

"Shaun has an invaluable wealth of experience, which will be hugely beneficial, and will play an important role in developing the defensive coaches and leaders of the future.

"I would also like to thank the Welsh Rugby Union for their support in this appointment."

Meanwhile, Edwards added: "I'm really looking forward to working with Danny Wilson and Cardiff Blues; there's a lot of potential here.

"For the majority of my time with Wales, Richard Hodges has also been the defence coach for Wales U20s so it will be great to link-up with him again."