Hadden severs ties with Scotland

Hadden says he has left Scottish Rugby to pursue other options

Former Scotland head coach Frank Hadden has parted company with Scottish Rugby to "seek new challenges".

The former Edinburgh coach, 54, took charge of the Scots in 2005 and during his tenure guided them to 18 victories in 43 internationals.

But he stepped down in April after a series of Six Nations disappointments.

"I have been coaching professional rugby since the end of the amateur era and it's time now to take a step back and review what I do next," he said.

Hadden enjoyed success in his first Six Nations, recording three victories, but the 2007, 2008 and 2009 campaigns yielded just one win each.

And he was replaced by Andy Robinson on 4 June.

Hadden said: "It was a huge honour to be invited to coach the Scotland Under-16s in 1992 and it has been a privilege to work with Scottish players at all levels since then.

"Everyone knows that coaching our national XV is a tough job but I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to take up the challenge and wish Andy Robinson the best of luck."

Scottish Rugby's chief executive Gordon McKie thanked Hadden for his efforts to improve the game in Scotland.

"I want to place on record Scottish Rugby's gratitude for Frank's utmost dedication and commitment," he said.

"Frank was, and remains, first and foremost a passionate follower of the Scotland team and he always knew the honour and great responsibility that goes with the post of Scotland head coach.

"Prior to Frank's appointment, Scotland had not won an away international against a top tier southern hemisphere nation since 1982 and we had only recorded one victory over England in 16 matches."

McKie praised Hadden for coaching Scotland to a first ever Test victory in Argentina; beating current Grand Slam champions Ireland ahead of the 2007 World Cup and plotting back-to-back Murrayfield Calcutta Cup triumphs.