Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl is reportedly keen to bring a former England international to the Arms Park as his new backs coach.
According to RugbyPass, the Welsh club has identified Matt Banahan as a potential addition to Van Zyl’s coaching staff as the South African begins shaping his backroom team for next season.
The 39-year-old won 16 Test caps for England and represented his country at the 2011 World Cup.
Since retiring in 2021, Banahan has quietly built an impressive coaching CV. He spent two years as an assistant coach with the Scotland Women before joining Premiership Women’s Rugby powerhouse Gloucester-Hartpury in a similar role last year.
A move to Cardiff would mark his first full-time role in the men’s professional game.
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Van Zyl, who was appointed Cardiff’s permanent head coach last month, is expected to make changes to his coaching team after stepping up from the forwards coach role he held since joining the club in 2024.
His current staff includes Gethin Jenkins, Jonny Goodridge and Scott Andrews.
Banahan has previously spoken of his passion for coaching and his desire to pass on what he learned during a distinguished playing career with Bath, Gloucester and England.
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Photo: Steve Bardens/Getty Images for Barbarians
The post Van Zyl eyes ex-England wing for Cardiff backroom appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl is reportedly keen to bring a former England international to the Arms Park as his new backs coach.
The post Van Zyl eyes ex-England wing for Cardiff backroom appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More



