Co-coaches Gareth Baber and Justin Burnell have been appointed as the men to take the Cardiff Blues forward this year following the departure of Dai Young, with Paul Tito set to continue as captain of the side.

Backline coach Baber and forwards coach Burnell will take the reins in Cardiff until the World Cup later this year when the position will be reviewed.

Speaking of the appointments, Cardiff Blues CEO, Robert Norster said: "It has been decided that Justin and Gareth are to be given the opportunity to manage team affairs with the position being reviewed following this year's Rugby World Cup which commences in New Zealand in September."

"It is a great opportunity for two young aspiring coaches to put their plans forward and gain greater experience and is a move that is supported by the playing squad who have already been proactively engaged in the scheduling of the season's preparations," he added.

Referring to Tito's extended term as captain, Norster added: "Paul has already proved himself to be the strongest of leaders who epitomises the spirit of our team and is someone who leads from the front whatever the challenge."

Speaking on the news of their interim appointment Burnell commented: "It is a great opportunity for both Gareth and myself. We have worked together for the last five years at the Blues Academy, the Premiership and the senior Blues team and now we get the chance to capitalise on all that hard work and we relish the prospect."

Gareth Baber added: "The decision to provide this opportunity for Justin and myself maintains continuity and is a positive reflection on the coaching structure and environment we have all worked hard to establish to this point.

"We are both looking positively at the season ahead and are very fortunate to have such a capable group of players and staff as we prepare to tackle the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead," he said.

Commenting on David Young's departure, Norster commented: "Since the very beginning, Dai Young has been an integral cornerstone of the Blues Region and is naturally someone we will all miss. On behalf of everyone at the Blues and indeed as a friend, I would publicly like to thank him for his significant contribution to the cause and wish him well with all he undertakes in his future career.

"Whilst understanding such role changes will rarely be seamless, we very much hope that Dai and his new employers will eventually recognise the need to respect and address the existing contractual position with Cardiff Blues. It is of course disappointing for all parties that events now appear to be taking a legal course which will prevent further comment at this time," he added.