FORMER Basingstoke RFC director of rugby Ian Calder has joined Bracknell as the national division two club's fly-half and backs coach.

The 38-year-old Kiwi left Down Grange in May after three years in charge when officials decided against renewing his contract.

A number of clubs were interested in securing his services, including Havant and Southend, but Bracknell held the trump card.

Calder explained: "Bob Crooks, their head coach, wanted me both as a player and backs coach. I wanted to join a club where I had a recognised coaching role.

"Havant were very keen, but they had a successful season and their coaches are already in place, so only wanted me as a player.

"I'm pleased to be joining Bracknell. It's a step up in standard and a new challenge for me to be facing teams I've not played before, as well as training a new set of boys."

Calder has signed on a one-year deal and is hopeful that he will have a successful campaign with Bracknell.

He said: "I want to have a good season on the field without all the politics and hassle that go with a director of rugby role.

"I haven't really enjoyed my rugby over the last 18 months, so I'm looking forward to a season where I can start doing that again."

Calder said the Bracknell backs were all young, aged between 20 and 24, and that he hoped his experience would prove an asset to the line.

"It's all fresh, so I've got to prove - and so have they - that we're worthy to play," he said.

Calder added he is still looking for secular work, but is delighted to have found a club near to his Basingstoke home so he didn't have to uproot his family.