Stuart Hooper appointed new Director of Rugby

Former club captain Stuart Hooper will start the new role next season. Credit: ITV West Country

Stuart Hooper has been appointed Bath's new Director of Rugby for the start of next season.

The decision follows the club's announcement in April 2019 that Todd Blackadder was stepping down to become head coach at Japanese side Toshiba.

In September 2018 the New Zealander signed a contract extension to stay at The Rec until the end of next season, but was granted an early release.

Todd Blackadder is leaving at the end of the season to head to Japan. Credit: ITV West Country

Former club captain Hooper was widely expected to be the next Director of Rugby.

He'll be assisted by Neal Hatley, who will assume responsibility for coaching the forwards and the defence following England's World Cup campaign this Autumn.

Girvan Dempsey will stay in his role of Attack and Backs Coach.

In a statement the club said: