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English club Bath on Wednesday confirmed the signing of South African coach Johann van Graan.
Bath Rugby announced on their official website that Van Graan signed a long-term contract and will start his tenure as head coach from the 2022/23 season.
This follows Tuesday's confirmation that Van Graan will leave Irish outfit Munster at the end of the 2021/22 season.
The former Springbok assistant coach was offered a two-year contract extension at Munster but he opted against taking it.
Bath added that Neal Hatley would continue as head coach until the end of the 2021/22 season, leading a coaching group which includes new defence coach Brent Janse van Rensburg.
"Following his appointment, Van Graan will be able to draw on significant expertise from the current coaching group. Specific roles and responsibilities will be communicated in due course," Bath said in a statement.
Bath Rugby is proud to announce the appointment of Johann van Graan as Head Coach for the 2022/23 season on a long-term contract.#WeAreBath ??????
— Bath Rugby (@BathRugby) December 15, 2021
Commenting on the new structure, Bath CEO Tarquin McDonald said: "We have huge ambition at Bath. Johann is a world-class coach who will play a fundamental role in our future success."He will hold full responsibility for our game, focussed on delivering winning performances. I am delighted to announce this appointment and look forward to welcoming Johann and his family to Bath this summer."
Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper added: "Johann is a phenomenal coach with a proven track record of developing teams to be successful on the pitch. He has experienced winning rugby environments at the very highest level of the game and knows exactly what it takes.
"We have an outstanding and committed group of players and staff here at the club... Johann's experience will add significantly to this."
Van Graan said he was "hugely excited" to join Bath.
"I see huge potential in this club, the players, coaches and staff. I am coming to Bath to work with everyone, and to achieve great success with everyone at the club.
"This is an exciting next step for me as a coach, and for my family in moving to a proud club and a true rugby city."
Bath are currently bottom of the Premiership Rugby standings with nine consecutive defeats.
