WALES coach Shaun Edwards will work part-time with Cardiff Blues on a consultancy basis.

The 50-year-old has linked up with boss Danny Wilson's Blues to lead defensive sessions and also to take on a mentoring role.

"Shaun will be a great addition to Cardiff Blues; his record speaks for itself and I am sure he will have a big impact," said Blues head coach Wilson.

"Defence is an area we have to improve if we want to take the next step and qualify for the European Champions Cup.

"Shaun has an invaluable wealth of experience, which will be hugely beneficial, and will play an important role in developing the defensive coaches and leaders of the future.

"I would also like to thank the Welsh Rugby Union for their support in this appointment."

Former Rugby League star Edwards excelled in his first coaching stint with Wasps, before joining Wales in 2008 and helping inspire two Grand Slams amid three Six Nations titles.

"I'm really looking forward to working with Danny Wilson and Cardiff Blues; there's a lot of potential here," said Edwards.

"For the majority of my time with Wales, Richard Hodges has also been the defence coach for Wales U20s so it will be great to link-up with him again."

Edwards, the most decorated player in rugby league history, has enjoyed an illustrious career both on and off the pitch.

After moving into coaching with Wasps he won the English Premiership on four occasions and every major trophy as a head coach.

Four of his six years at Wasps were alongside Warren Gatland and the duo linked up again with Wales in 2008.

Edwards has since been integral to three RBS Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams.

He added: "I'm really looking forward to working with Danny Wilson and Cardiff Blues. There's a lot of potential here.

"For the majority of my time with Wales, Richard Hodges has also been the defence coach for Wales U20s so it will be great to link-up with him again.”

The Welsh Rugby Union said: "We see this move as a hugely positive step forward with the Cardiff Blues region.

"Shaun will provide regular continuity between the Senior National Management and the coaching set up within the Blues, working alongside Danny and his team.

"We will see this impact across the other regions with our National Coaches also working with the Dragons, Scarlets and Ospreys at various junctures throughout the coming season.”