NSW Waratahs have finalised their coaching team for the 2020 Super Rugby season with former World Cup-winning Wallabies forward Matt Cockbain snapped up as forwards coach.
Cockbain, a member of Australia’s 1999 World Cup-winning line-up as well as playing in the 2003 final, joins backs coach Chris Whitaker as an assistant to new mentor Rob Penney.
Cockbain will assume the position after taking charge of the Ricoh Black Rams in Japan’s Top League for the past three years.
The 63-Test lock has also enjoyed stints with the Fiji national team and Melbourne Rebels as an assistant after a decorated playing career.
Cockbain notched more than 90 Super Rugby appearances for the Queensland Reds to complement his distinguished international career.
“Matt brings a wealth of experience from both his playing days and coaching career,” said Penney, who has taken over from fellow Kiwi Daryl Gibson.
“He’s established himself as a very knowledgeable, sought-after coach.
“Sounding him out to be involved here was one of the first things I did after being appointed at the Waratahs.
“I always wanted to ensure that the make-up of our staff would provide opportunity for local coaches within Australian rugby.”
Cockbain said it was an honour to be able to work with the Waratahs.
“To be honest, I just can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“When Rob got in touch, he outlined the direction he wants to take the squad and the goals he has for the Waratahs and we share a lot of the same philosophies and ideas about the game.
“It was an easy choice for me in the end.”
The Waratahs have also appointed former Wallabies and Queensland hooker Mark Bell as part-time scrum coach.
Bell has previously worked as a specialist scrum coach with Sydney University and Newington College.
He has held assistant roles with the Australian under-19s and the Reds and will also work alongside his son, Angus, who is in the NSW Waratahs senior squad.
Cockbain and Bell round out Penney’s team of assistants as they link up with Whitaker and defence coach Steve Tandy.
