Bath going for Gold

Bath have brought in Gary Gold as the head of their new coaching staff for the 2012-13 season, with Toby Booth leaving his post as head coach at London Irish to work under him.

Exiles academy coach Neal Hatley will also be moving to the Recreation Ground.

Gold, who spent four years as assistant coach of the South African national team, said: "I'm really looking forward to coming on board at Bath. It's a very ambitious club, with a great array of talent within the squad that I'm excited to be working with."

He added: "There is a good culture developing here, and I'm keen to help further that with my own expertise and experience."

Gold will replace outgoing director of rugby Sir Ian McGeechan.

Having spent the past four months as interim coach of Newcastle Falcons, Gold is ready for a new challenge next season and Bath's chief executive Nick Blofeld is delighted they have managed to lure the South African to the post.

"Gary has put together a very strong team with great experience," he said.

"This also demonstrates the club's long-term commitment to being the best we can be and getting the most out of a talented squad.

"They have tremendous experience and complimentary skills, especially with Brad Davis remaining as part of the coaching team."