Les Kiss appointed to Ulster director role

Ireland assistant coach Les Kiss has been appointed as Ulster’s interim director of rugby.

Kiss, who will continue with his international squad duties, takes up the post on July 19.

In addition to confirming Kiss’ role, Ulster announced that head coach Mark Anscombe has left the province with immediate effect.

It follows the recent exit of rugby director David Humphreys, who has left Belfast for Aviva Premiership club Gloucester.

Ulster said that 49-year-old former Australian rugby league international Kiss’ appointment would “allow time for a review of the coaching structures at Ulster Rugby to take place.”

Ulster chief executive Shane Logan said: “I would like to pay tribute to the contribution that Mark Anscombe made over the past two seasons, and to thank him for his hard work and dedication.

“Les Kiss will have an expanded remit for the province’s director of rugby and will lead the coaching staff, assisted by Jonny Bell and Neil Doak, and will manage first-team selection.

“His appointment allows us time to recruit for long-term success.”