ROWLAND Phillips has been appointed as head coach of Wales Women to spearhead the preparations for next year's World Cup.

Former dual code international Phillips, who has previously been in charge of Neath, Aironi, London Welsh and Wales Under-18s, has taken the reins with immediate effect to build towards next year's Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland.

He succeeds Rhys Edwards, who had been in charge since 2011 and left his role after leading Wales to fourth in the 2016 Six Nations.

Phillips, who won the British & Irish Cup with London Welsh last season and won four Principality Premiership and two Cup titles with Neath said, "I'm really excited by the very real challenge in front of us for women's rugby in Wales.

"Taking charge of an international side is a great honour but the most pleasing aspect of this role is that we have an abundance of talent in the women's game in Wales, which has excited me since I started watching the club, regional and international game here four or five seasons ago.

"There's a huge increase in interest in women and girls' rugby in Wales, and globally, at the moment, from international rugby to the community game, and I'm looking forward to being part of that and helping players to fulfil their potential on the field."

Phillips credits his daughter, 26-times capped Carys for developing his initial passion for the women's game.

"Carys' involvement has enabled me to keep a closer eye on women's rugby over a number of years," he said.

"I've obviously watched her play from a young age as any parent would, but more recently I've watched a lot of club, regional and international rugby which has opened my eyes to the talent available and I'm excited by what I see."

WRU National Women's Manager Caroline Spanton said: "Rowland's appointment as full time head coach reflects the increased profile and investment the Welsh Rugby Union is committing to the international women's game.

"The standard is rising at a pace in the women's game, and I expect Rowland to bring professionalism from his success in the men's game to the role in order to help us step up a gear ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup next year."

WRU Head of Rugby Performance Geraint John said: "We are thrilled to appoint Rowland from a number of high calibre individuals who applied for the post. The interest shows that the women's head coach role is now a sought after position in its own right and we are committed to supporting the further development of the international women's game."