The Chiefs have announced that Colin Cooper will replace Dave Rennie as head coach from 2018 through to 2020.

Cooper, who has been appointed on an initial three-year contract, will take charge of the three-time champpions after the departure of his predecessor Rennie, who will join the Glasgow Warriors at the end of the 2017 season.

The current Maori All Blacks and Taranaki coach has been coaching professionally for over 20 years, including eight seasons in charge of the Hurricanes from 2003 to 2010.

Cooper says he is looking forward to joining the Chiefs and contributing to the proud, competitive and successful legacy of the franchise.

'To be involved in coaching Super Rugby again within the ambitious and innovative setup at the Chiefs is exciting and to have the opportunity to develop young players and coaches for the future of New Zealand rugby is something I’m very passionate about,' he said.

'I strongly believe that establishing a cohesive team culture where our people are constantly striving to become better people as well as better players, coaches and administrators is the only way to create meaningful long-term success. I’m excited by what’s to come in the near future beginning with the Maori All Blacks and Taranaki in 2017, and then launching into a new era with the Chiefs in 2018.'

Photo: TBC