Edinburgh Rugby looking for new head coach after Richard Cockerill departs
He's been in the capital for four years
Last updated 19th Jul 2021
Richard Cockerill has left his job as head coach of Edinburgh Rugby after more than four years in the job.
A statement released by the club said they had agreed to part ways by mutual consent, to allow the 50-year-old to 'pursue other opportunities'.
He joined the club in February 2017 and has recently been linked with French side Clermont Auvergne.
Richard Cockerill said: "Having had constructive conversations with Jim Mallinder and Mark Dodson post season it was agreed that we would come to an agreement where I would leave the club by mutual consent to pursue other opportunities.
"I would like to thank everyone at Edinburgh Rugby for the hard work they have put in. It has been a rewarding four seasons for the club.
"I would also like to thank all the supporters for everything they have done for me and the team you have been amazing.
"I wish the staff and players all the best for the future and look forward to watching you in your new stadium."
Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director, Douglas Struth, said: “I would like to thank Richard for all his hard work and commitment to the club throughout his time at Edinburgh Rugby.
“We wish him all the very best in his next challenge.”
How did Richard Cockerill do at Edinburgh?
The former England international arrived in the capital following coaching spells at Leicester Tigers and Toulon.
Under his leadership, the side qualified for the Pro14 play-offs for the first time in the 2017-18 season, which ended with a quarter-final defeat to Munster.
They repeated the feat bin a truncated 2019-20 season, reaching the last four before defeat to Ulster at Murrayfield.
The capital side also reached the Heineken Champions Cup quarter-finals in 2018-19 after winning their pool.
Several Edinburgh players have also gone on to become regulars in the Scotland set-up since Cockerill took charge.
Last season proved challenging for the team though, eventually finishing fifth in their conference during an unusual season because of the pandemic.
Who will take charge at Edinburgh Rugby?
The club has confirmed its pre-season will be led by assistant coach Calum MacRae and strength and conditioning coach Nick Lumley.
The side will return to action in just under two months, with a friendly against English side Newcastle Falcons.
They'll also play Benetton before competitive action resumes.
This season will be Edinburgh's first at their new home - a purpose built ground in the shadow of BT Murrayfield.