Super Rob.

Former Munster head coach Rob Penney will replace fellow New Zealander Daryl Gibson as Waratahs coach next season.

The former Canterbury coach, who has been the frontrunner for the vacant role, has signed a three-year deal with the Australian Super Rugby side.

Penney guided Canterbury to four consecutive NPC titles and took the New Zealand U20s to a Junior World Championship Final in 2012, finishing runners up to South Africa, before moving to Munster in 2012 to replace Tony McGahan.

He left Munster at the end of the 2013/14 season and in recent seasons he has been coaching Japanese Top League club NTT Communications Shining Arcs.

Penney said it was an honour to be appointed Head Coach of the NSW Waratahs.

“The Waratahs are an organisation revered throughout world rugby, with a proud history of performance and player development,” said Penney.

“To be given the opportunity to help this playing group get the most out of both themselves as individuals and as a collective is an exciting one.

“I’m looking forward to contributing to the betterment of Australian rugby, ensuring we have a working environment at the [NSW] Waratahs to foster the young talent already assembled.
“To see players grow, develop and reach their own personal goals is a hugely satisfying part of coaching – one I’m personally looking forward to here in Australia.

“Ultimately, I want our players to represent the jersey with pride and ensure New South Wales continues to be a leader in Australian rugby.”