Cape Town - Former Springbok and Italy coach Nick Mallett has congratulated Stuart Lancaster after the Englishman pipped him for the position of England's new rugby coach on Thursday.

"I would like to congratulate Stuart Lancaster on his appointment as England Rugby Head Coach. I am sure he will continue to build on the good work he has done with the team in the aftermath of a difficult World Cup for them," said Mallett.

Mallett says he had given it his "best shot" after he and Lancaster were both interviewed for the position in London last week. Mallett is nevertheless hopeful that other positions will soon arise to further his career.
 
"Having presented to an RFU panel and had personal meetings with RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie in England last week, I believe the process was conducted in the most professional manner. I gave it my best shot and was glad to be able to discuss my feelings and philosophy on how I’d have coached the team.
 
"With the speculation around the England Head Coach position now out of the way, I am looking forward to sitting down at looking at other opportunities in the world of rugby with my representative, Craig Livingstone," said Mallett.