Rugby: Hammett heading to Cardiff

Mark Hammett. Photo / Getty Images

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett has been announced as the new Director of Rugby at the Cardiff Blues.

Hammett has signed a three year deal with Cardiff and will join the club following the completion of the Super Rugby season.

Hammett said last month that he made the call to leave his post last year after consulting with his family and other mentors.

The Hurricanes currently sit eighth overall in the Super Rugby standings and fourth in the New Zealand Conference. They have four local derbies left in the season starting with a clash with the Chiefs on Saturday.

Hammett, 41, will front a new-look coaching team at Cardiff Arms Park with fellow New Zealander Dale McIntosh and Welshman Paul John.

"We conducted an extensive worldwide search, with the help of Wales coach Warren Gatland and Gareth Edwards, and are absolutely delighted that Mark Hammett will be taking the role of Director of Rugby," said Richard Holland, Chief Executive at Cardiff Blues.

"I have met Mark and he was the outstanding coach and person for the role. We believe his long-term vision for the Blues with take us to the next level and achieve our ambitions.

"We've made strong signings with New Zealand international Jarrad Hoeata, Italian back row Manoa Vosawai, Craig Mitchell, Josh Turnbull, Tavis Knoyle, George Watkins and Ieuan Jones joining us. We're working hard on more signings and are positive about the way they will work with our talented existing squad under the guidance of Mark Hammett."

By season's end, Hammett will have spent four years in the top job at the Hurricanes and his legacy shapes as one where he brought about extensive change in the culture at the franchise.

He cleared out the likes of Andrew Hore and Ma'a Nonu at the end of 2011, while a collection of other senior players also parted ways with the side after Hammett's first season.

Hammett informed his players of his decision to step down last month and said it was a tough message to deliver.