Connacht's Nel to return to South Africa

Steph Nel is to return to South Africa after three years as Director of Coaching for Connacht.

Nel is to pursue his rugby interests within his native country where he plans to get married later in the year.

The IRFU has expressed their thanks to Nel for the contribution he made in the development of rugby within Connacht.

The IRFU announced Michael Bradley as his successor.

Bradley is staff coach within the IRFU framework operating with the Irish U21 side, the Coach Development Process and the Elite Player Development Programmes.