Worcester have confirmed the appointment of Wales' Grand Slam-winning coach Mike Ruddock as their new director of rugby.

Ruddock, who led Wales to a 2005 Six Nations Championship clean sweep, has agreed a three-year contract at Sixways.

The 47-year-old takes over from John Brain, who left the club yesterday just 48 hours after Worcester secured Guinness Premiership survival by finishing one point above relegated Northampton.

Despite Wales securing their first Grand Slam for 27 years during Ruddock's reign, he left the post suddenly midway through last season's Six Nations campaign.

The reasons for his departure have never been fully explained, although so-called player power was believed to be a factor.

Ruddock inherits a Worcester squad that has already been strengthened for next season by the signing of All Blacks centre Sam Tuitupou, while most of the existing playing group are staying.