English rugby club Leicester have appointed Dan McKellar as their new head coach, with the former Wallabies assistant due to begin work in July.

McKellar stood down from his role with Australia on Tuesday after two years in the role, following on from a successful stint in charge of the ACT Brumbies.

The 46-year-old told the club’s website: “This has been a big decision for me and my family, to make the move to the other side of the world together.

“But it is one that we are very much looking forward to doing, to be a part of a club like Leicester Tigers.”

McKellar will replace new England mentor Steve Borthwick.

Borthwick has taken over from the sacked Eddie Jones, who was keen to retain McKellar’s services in a World Cup year.

“This was an extremely difficult decision to make but it’s one that’s made with my best professional and family interests in mind,” McKellar said in a statement.

“I firmly believe my next challenge will make me a better coach and hopefully allow me to return home and contribute in a positive fashion to Australian rugby in the future.”