Tabai Matson joins Super Rugby side Chiefs as assistant coach

Super Rugby franchise Chiefs have confirmed that Tabai Matson will join the club as an assistant coach ahead of the 2018 season.

Matson had earlier stepped down from his role as the head coach of Bath Rugby at the start of the season citing family reasons.

The 44-year-old has also worked with New Zealand sides Canterbury as a head coach and Crusaders in an assistant role before becoming the attack coach of Fiji in 2015 and now will be part of the Chiefs coaching panel headed by Colin Cooper.

Matson is delighted to head back to New Zealand and work under Cooper for the next two seasons of Super Rugby.

"Unfortunately, it was illness in my family that drew me back to New Zealand a lot sooner than I had planned," Matson said, in a statement released by the Chiefs.

"Although it was disappointing to leave Bath, the unexpected opportunity to be involved with the Chiefs was too good to pass up.

"I've really enjoyed working with Colin historically, and we share a lot of similar values which will align closely with the culture of the Chiefs.

"I would like to acknowledge Bath for their support during a challenging personal time for my family and I. It's great to be involved in Super Rugby again, and I am really looking forward to the journey ahead with the Chiefs."