I’m thrilled to be Wasps’ new boss, says Tony Hanks

Chris Jones
15 May 2009

London Wasps have confirmed New Zealander Tony Hanks has become director of rugby to replace Ian McGeehan, who was axed after four years in charge.

Hanks previously worked with Wasps in 2002 as a technical analyst and assistant coach before returning home to Waikato, helping the provincial to victory in the Air New Zealand Cup in 2006 and the Ranfurly Shield a year later.

Hanks will take over from McGeechan, who is in charge of the Lions summer tour to South Africa.

He will be joined by a new forwards coach, expected to be former England prop Trevor Woodman, who will work alonside present head coach Shaun Edwards.

Hanks said: “I feel very privileged to be appointed as director of rugby of London Wasps. I follow two pretty special coaches in Warren Gatland and Ian McGeechan — two guys I have huge amount of respect for.

“My priorities are to complete the coaching team and our player recruitment ahead of next season.”
Edwards today paid tribute to the departing McGeechan and said: “I consider it an honour and a privilege to have worked with Ian over the last few years. Lots of people said we couldn't continue the success we had had under Warren Gatland. That was proven wrong with three trophies in four years.

“We welcome Tony back to Wasps and I am looking forward to the next few years when, hopefully, we can be a power in Europe and Premiership.”

Wasps No10 Danny Cipriani, meanwhile, is delaying having a metal plate and screws removed from his ankle after being put on standby for the Lions tour of South Africa this summer.