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Ashton named new Bath coach

01/11/2005

Former Bath coach Brian Ashton will return to the club to replace current supermo John Connelly in January.

Ashton, who was in charge at the Recreation Ground from 1994 to 1996, is currently the national academy manager at the Rugby Football Union and will replace Connelly, who is returning to his native Australia, on January 1st.

With Connelly leaving the Bath hot-seat at the end of November, Michael Foley and Richard Graham will take charge of the team through December, with two Heineken Cup games against Glasgow Warriors, a Powergen Cup tie against westcountry rivals Gloucester and a Guinness Premiership game against Worcester.

Ashton's first game in charge is the visit of current Premiership leaders Sale Sharks on January 2nd.

"This move gives me the opportunity to do hands-on coaching on a daily basis," Ashton said.

The 59-year-old brings a wealth of experience to a side currently sitting eighth in the Premiership, having been head coach of Ireland and assistant coach of England.

Ashton was due to be in charge of England A this season but this role will now be fulfilled by John Wells.

"The appointment is an important step in the building process to ensure that Bath Rugby remains a force to be reckoned with in Europe," Bath chairman Andrew Brownswood said.

"Brian has the experience and recognised ability to extend the excellent progress achieved in the past three rebuilding seasons."

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