Richards joined Quins from Grenoble where he was general manager for a season following his successful spell as director of rugby at Leicester Tigers.

In Richards’ first season in charge at Quins, they secured promotion back to the top flight before finishing seventh in the Guinness Premiership.

“I am delighted to have extended my contract with Quins,” said Richards.

“I’m very happy at the club and my family have settled well in the area. I’m very excited about the developments at Quins, as well as being confident about building on our encouraging return to the top flight this season.”

During his time in charge at Leicester, Richards led the Tigers to four consecutive league titles as well to back-to-back victories in the Heineken Cup.

As a player, he won 48 caps for England between 1982 and 1997, as well as winning six caps for the British and Irish Lions on the tours to Australia and New Zealand in 1989 and 1993 respectively.

“Dean’s track record speaks for itself,” said Harlequins chief executive Mark Evans.

“He has had huge success throughout his career, both as a player and a coach. He led us out of Division One at the first attempt, winning 25 out of 26 league matches, and under his guidance our return to the Premiership resulted in Quins finishing seventh and laying solid foundations on which to build.

“The club is moving in the right direction and I’m absolutely delighted that Dean has extended his contract for a further three years with us.

“Stability at any sports organisation is vital and this contract renewal is an important part in ensuring the continued development of the club.”