Originally posted by BBC SPORT
Bath forwards coach Michael Foley has been appointed assistant coach of the Australian national team.
The 38-year-old has signed a three-year deal and will team up again with former Bath boss John Connolly, who took over as Australia coach last year.
"I've worked with John as a player and recently as a coach and we complement each other well," said Foley.
Foley, who was in the 1999 World Cup-winning squad, will join Australia for the game with England in 10 June.
The former hooker, who joined Bath in 2001 as assistant to Jon Callard, admitted he was sad to leave the club but said the offer of returning home to work with Connolly was too good to miss.
Connolly took over from Eddie Jones after Australia's worst losing streak in more than 30 years but Foley believes there are signs of recovery in the national game.
"The Wallaby forwards came under plenty of scrutiny last year but already in Super 14 we've seen players and packs improve remarkably," said Foley, who won 50 international caps.
"That's not to say there isn't room for further improvement but the early signs are pleasing."
Connolly said he was looking forward to having Foley as part of his coaching team.
"Michael is a very good young coach with plenty of experience and technical knowledge," Connolly added.
"He has a strong vision for how we want to play the game and how we need to move forward this season, as well as looking ahead to the World Cup next year."
Bath have previously said they would demand compensation from the Australian Rugby Union if Foley left.
