Oxford University have appointed former scrum half James Gaunt as their new backs coach.

Gaunt, who plays for Henley Hawks, takes on the role as his club announce two signings in scrum half Dan Smaje and hooker Andy Dalgleish – the former Dark Blues captain.

Oxford University director of rugby Steve Hill, said: “We are very pleased that James Gaunt has agreed to join the coaching team.

“James was an outstanding player for OURFC and we look forward to him making a significant contribution in preparing the team to retain the Nomura Varsity Trophy this coming December.

“He will be working alongside former England and Ireland coach Brian Ashton.”

Henley head coach Jason Forster, meanwhile, has added experience to his young squad by snapping up Smaje and Dalgleish, who were both at big-spending Ealing last season.

Smaje played more than 100 games for Henley before joining Newbury in 2005.

Forster said: “I am particularly pleased to welcome a player of Dan's ability and experience back at the club.”

Dalgleish skippered the Dark Blues in the 2005 Varsity Match – Gaunt was also in the Oxford squad that year – and was a regular for England Students, whom he also captained.

Other new signings continue the youth policy at Dry Leas.

Wing Christoph Bart, who is a member of the Wasps youth development scheme, has joined along with scrum half Freddie Edwards, who was at Ealing last year.

Will Fulton, who scored 17 points in the final game against Rosslyn Park last season, will continue to play at Henley while joining the Wasps development set-up.

New players are welcome at the first training session next Tuesday (6.30 pm).

Henley Hawks home pre-season fixtures

Ampthill (Saturday, August 15, 3pm), Esher (August 22, 1.30 & 3pm), Reading Abbey (August 27, 7.30pm).