Leicester Tigers have confirmed that Aaron Mauger will become the club's new head coach from the start of next season.
The 33-year-old, who is currently assistant coach of the Canterbury Crusaders, has signed a three-year deal at Welford Road.
Mauger, who played for the Tigers between 2007 and 2010, has said that he is looking forward to working with the players and coaching staff at the East Midlands side.
"I have awesome memories of my time at Leicester as a player and it is a place I will very happily return to," the former New Zealand international told the Leicester Mercury.
"I feel incredibly lucky to have the chance to do that as the head coach for the club and the timing is right for me to grab that opportunity.
"My aim is to help create the framework for Leicester to once again be among the top clubs in European and world rugby."
Mauger will replace Paul Burke, who recently vacated the head coach role.
Steven Toplis
