Leinster appoint local legend as new head coach

*Feigns surprise*

Leinster have gone for an Irishman to lead the province over the next two years as Leo Cullen has been named new head coach on a two-year deal. The appointment of the former second row means he's the first Irishman to lead the province since Gerry Murphy almost 10 years ago. Cullen was named the interim coach for the summer after the sudden departure of Matt O'Connor following another disappointing season with an early European exit and failure to make the latter stages of the Guinness Pro12. However Cullen was widely expected to be among the front-runners for the job and today the IRFU and Leinster have confirmed his appointment. Leinster Rugby CEO Mick Dawson has given a number of reasons for appointing the three-time European Cup winner to the role.

"Leo's status as a player is beyond question. He is second only to Gordon D'Arcy in terms of senior appearances and he was an outstanding captain and leader on the pitch. Over the last 12 months or so in his capacity with the forwards and indeed over the pre-season as interim Head Coach, Leo has continued to impress everyone at Leinster with his tactical and strategic direction."

Cullen will have Kurt McQuilkin as his defence coach, while John Fogarty is the provincial scrum coach and Girvan Dempsey takes up a short term contract as backs coach until after the Rugby World Cup. Cullen will also be able to count on Richie Murphy who will join the province as skills and kicking coach after Ireland's involvement in the World Cup comes to an end. Cullen's first game is this Friday's against Ulster in Belfast, while his first competitive fixture is away to Edinburgh Rugby in the Guinness PRO12 on Friday, 4th September.