BILLY McGinty, the Worcester Warriors backs and defence coach, has committed his future to the Sixways club by signing a new two-year deal.

The former Great Britain rugby league star has had a major impact on the Warriors rearguard and they have gone almost four hours of Guinness Premiership rugby without conceding a try.

Glasgow-born McGinty, who has been with Worcester since they were promoted to the top flight, has also enjoyed spells as assistant coach at Wigan and Huddersfield Giants, head coach for the Scotland rugby league team and also in rugby union at Sale Sharks.

Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock said: “It really is great news that Billy has decided to extend his stay.

“He is hugely respected at the Warriors and his excellent work with our defence has made us a much tougher team to break down.

“Billy has also been working hard on our back-line in order for us to be an even greater threat with ball in hand. He is a talented coach, a very conscientious and hard-working professional.

“I’m over the moon that he is able to continue all his excellent work with us.”

McGinty added: “I’ve seen the club evolve over the last few years and there is no doubt that we now have the right blend in the squad, with so many young players coming through the ranks, to be a success and move forward.”

Meanwhile, Tevita Taumoepeau looks to have shaken off a virus and a calf injury to lift Ruddock’s front-row options for Saturday’s trip to London Irish.

Ruddock said: “Tevita has had a cold on his chest which stopped him training today, but that seems to have settled down sooner than we thought.”