Edinburgh coach Nick Scrivener to return to Australia

Nick Scrivener has ruled himself out of taking the Edinburgh Rugby head coach job on a full-time basis.

The Australian took on the role of interim head coach following Rob Moffat's departure in January,

However, he has decided to return to his homeland at the end of this season for personal reasons.

"I've met some great individuals among the squad and the management, and I've got faith in their ability to take the club forward," said Scriviner.

Scrivener's departure brings to an end a two-year association with Edinburgh, where he acted as an assistant coach specialising in defence.

"This has been a massively difficult call to make," said the Australian coach. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at Edinburgh and feel I've progressed as a coach through working with different people and in different competitions.

"I'm a rugby man, but first and foremost I'm a family man.

"My wife and daughters have made huge sacrifices to support me in the last couple of years, and having had the chance to further discuss our future with them, I've chosen to withdraw my application and head back to Australia.

"My focus now is on helping Edinburgh follow up Saturday's great result against the Ospreys by winning our last four Magners League games."

Craig Docherty, the club's chief executive, said: "We respect Nick's decision and his desire to be closer to his young family.

"The process of identifying and appointing a permanent head coach is ongoing, and we're working extremely hard to bring in an individual who will ensure the club keeps progressing."