Rory Thornton has been appointed Cardiff RFC’s new line out coach for the remainder of the season. 

The second-row succeeds Josh Turnbull, who has stepped down to focus on his primary role with the club’s academy and Under-18 set-up. Turnbull is also part of the Wales Under-18s coaching staff. 

Thornton, who is already a level two coach with previous experience working with Bonymaen and Cardiff University, will begin his new role with immediate effect. 

Cardiff Rugby Academy Manager, Gruff Rees, said: “We have really appreciated Josh’s input over the past few months. The alignment of coaching and his insight and detail, has supported our internal model brilliantly. 

“However, we are also mindful of the amount of hours that Josh is spending on the field and understand how important his pathway work is. 

“With his Wales age-grade commitments growing in the New Year it was apparent that we needed to look at different options and we are delighted to give Rory this opportunity. 

“He is developing his coaching craft with a recent stint at Cardiff University and has a real, thorough understanding of the lineout. He will bring an enormous amount of expertise and experience in this area and we are looking forward to supporting him in this next opportunity.”

Thornton added: “I’m very grateful and excited about the opportunity to gain some valuable coaching experience with Cardiff RFC, while passing on the experience I have. 

“It gives me the chance to start and complete my level three coaching qualifications, which is something I’m hoping to start in January.”

Meanwhile, Cardiff can also confirm that both Dan Fish and Craig Everett will be part of the coaching staff for the Regional Academy Under-23 side that will play two fixtures against Wales Under-20s in January. 

Academy Analyst Brooklyn Hicks-Williams will work with Wales Under-20s and conditioning coach, Ed Price, with Wales Under-18s.