Leicester Tigers Academy head coach Matt Smith has stepped up to assistant coach on an interim basis following news attack coach Rob Taylor has been granted an early release from his contract on compassionate grounds, allowing him to return to New Zealand.

Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick said: “On behalf of the players, coaching team and everybody at Leicester Tigers, I thank Rob for his efforts and contribution to our club,” said Borthwick. Hooper, who captained Catt before stepping into the coaching dugout, said: “Losing Nathan (Catt) to injury is a big blow. “Injuries to Terrence Hepetema and Matt Williams have left us short in the centre position, so we are delighted that we are able to bring in Billy, who has a lot of experience of playing in the Premiership.”. Here are the latest rugby transfer rumours and confirmed moves from around the Gallagher Premiership.... Read More Related Articles. Merrick, who already has Premiership experience with Harlequins, has arrived at Sixways after a season with Clermont Auvergne in France’s Top 14 while Thomas joins from Harlequins.

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