Rugby: Vern Cotter ending stint as Scotland coach

Vern Cotter. Photo / AP

Scotland have confirmed that Glasgow Warriors' Gregor Townsend will replace New Zealander Vern Cotter as head coach of the national side in June on a three-year deal.

New Zealander Cotter took over as Scotland boss in 2014, replacing interim coach Scott Johnson, and guided them to the 2015 World Cup quarter-finals before they came fourth in this year's Six Nations, their best finish since 2013.

Cotter hasn't revealed his plans but a move back to New Zealand could be on the cards.

Townsend, 43, already has experience of working with Scotland, having been part of Andy Robinson's backroom staff between 2009 and 2012.

He represented Scotland 82 times in a 10-year international playing career and guided Warriors to the Pro12 last year - when they became the first Scottish side to win the title - having taken over in 2012.

Cotter, in a statement released by Scottish Rugby, says he will remain focused on the autumn internationals but didn't reveal where he would coach next.

He believed Scotland had made progress in his time as coach.

"Since taking up this role I believe we have moved forward as a group by working to execute the simple things well.

"Developing skillsets and mindsets has been important to help perform on the international stage."