Chris Hickey has been appointed coach of the New South Wales Waratahs.

Hickey signed a three-year contract to replace Ewen McKenzie, who was sacked in April but allowed to finish the season.

Local media had speculated that the NSW Rugby Union might change its mind and reappoint McKenzie after the Waratahs reached the Super 14 final but the board was unanimous in its decision to appoint Hickey.

"Chris is a proven winner," NSW chairman Arvid Petersen said in a statement.

"Obviously there's a high standard to live up to, but Chris inherits a great set-up, a great playing roster and the organisation will now work with him on getting his coaching team finalised for 2009."

Hickey has been coaching at club level in Australia for 14 years with great success and was also in charge of the Australian Under-21s for two seasons.

"It's a big challenge, a big responsibility, but I know I'm ready and can't wait to get started," he said.