IRFU add three new appointments to national team’s management structure

THE IRFU have appointed three new members to the management of the national team.

Former rugby league international Graham Steadman will take charge of defensive coaching. Steadman will continue his defensive duties with Munster until a replacement can be found.

Brian McLaughlin has been named as national skills coach. A former schoolmaster from Royal Belfast Academical Institution, he coached the senior team there to five Ulster Schools Cup victories and was part of the successful U21 coaching team that won two triple crowns in 1996 and 1998.