London Irish have confirmed that Tom Coventry will be the club's new head coach for the 2015-16 season.

The 48-year-old replaces Brian Smith, who announced his departure from the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday due to personal reasons.

Coventry is currently assistant boss of New Zealand side the Chiefs.

The Exiles, who sit in 11th place in the Aviva Premiership table, will be coached by Glenn Delaney on an interim basis until the end of the season.

"The owners have a clear vision of where they want to take the club," Coventry told London Irish's official website. "It is a challenge I am immensely excited by and I cannot wait to get stuck in when I join.

"I have enjoyed my time with the Chiefs and will continue to do so until it is time to go, but I think to stay fresh as a coach it is important to immerse yourself in new environments, new challenges and experiences which is what I am going to do."

London Irish are back in action on Saturday when they host Grenoble in the European Challenge Cup.