He said: “I see this as a massive opportunity and am very excited to fully immerse myself in Scottish rugby. Being part of Super Rugby for the past two seasons has enabled me to gain invaluable experience in different styles of rugby.

“Playing against teams from South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, Argentina and Australia has been an amazing learning opportunity for me and will aide my transition into the international game.

“Defence is a huge part of the game which I am extremely passionate about. With my experiences from both the northern and southern hemispheres, I feel I can add to the Scotland set up, moving forward. I cannot wait to start working with Gregor, his coaching team and the players.”

Also joining the Scotland national team coaching group in the New Year is former France prop Pieter de Villiers, in the role of Scrum Coach.

South Africa-born de Villiers played in two Rugby World Cups for France (1999 and 2007) earning 69 caps in an eight-year Test career, which also brought four Six Nations titles.

He moved into coaching after his retirement through injury in 2008 and joined South Africa as Scrum Coach in 2012, before switching to Stade Francais in 2018.

De Villiers played for the Top 14 side 150 times in a 14-year spell and won the French title on five occasions with the club between 1998 and 2007.

He will work with Scotland throughout the up-coming Six Nations tournament on a short-term contract capacity.