Cardiff Blues confirm Mark Hammett departure

Cardiff Blues have parted ways with director of rugby Mark Hammett only six months into his three-year contract.

The 42-year-old replaced Phil Davies for the 2014-15 season, but has won only four of his 15 Pro12 matches in charge.

The Welsh club are 10th in the Pro12 table and in danger of missing out on qualification for Europe's top club competition next season.

Hammett, who played 29 times at hooker for New Zealand, was Cardiff's fourth coach since Dai Young's nine-year tenure came to an end in 2011.

Former Wales and Blues scrum-half Rob Howley is among those being tipped to replace Hammett.