Former Wales and Scarlets player Jonathan Davies has suggested a “dream” coaching lineup for the Wales national team, involving Simon Easterby and Lee Blackett. Davies, who played under both coaches at Parc y Scarlets, believes they would be ideal candidates to succeed Warren Gatland. Easterby, currently interim Ireland boss, has been mentioned as a frontrunner for the Wales job, while Davies is the first to propose Blackett as part of the coaching staff. Davies praised Easterby’s experience with the Ireland set-up and suggested that Blackett’s coaching ability would be a valuable addition to Welsh rugby.
Meanwhile, Wales Women’s incoming head coach, Sean Lynn, has described the team as a “sleeping beast” and expressed his excitement about leading them in the upcoming Women’s Six Nations campaign. Lynn, who will depart Premiership side Gloucester-Hartpury after 24 years, is optimistic about the team’s potential and aims to build towards the Women’s Rugby World Cup later this year. Despite his emotional attachment to his current club, Lynn is looking forward to the new challenge of coaching his homeland’s national team.
In player news, Wales Women’s international Kayleigh Powell has signed a new contract with Harlequins. Powell, who joined the team last summer, has been a key player in the squad, making 10 league starts at fly-half. With 20 international caps for Wales, Powell expressed her enthusiasm for continuing with the team and highlighted the special environment at Harlequins as a significant factor in her decision to extend her contract.
On the injury front, Ireland have been dealt a triple blow ahead of their Six Nations match against Wales. Captain Caelan Doris, hooker Ronan Kelleher, and prop Tadhg Furlong have all been ruled out of the upcoming fixture at the Principality Stadium due to various injuries. The absence of these key players presents a challenge for Ireland, but attack coach Andrew Goodman remains hopeful that they will recover in time for the clash against France in March. Despite the setbacks, Goodman expressed confidence in the leadership options within the squad to fill the void left by the injured players.
The latest rugby headlines also include updates on Ireland’s injury setbacks and Wales’ coaching prospects. With key players sidelined due to injuries, Ireland faces a tough challenge against Wales in the upcoming Six Nations match. On the coaching front, Jonathan Davies has suggested a potential coaching duo of Simon Easterby and Lee Blackett for the Wales national team, praising their skills and experience. Additionally, incoming Wales Women’s head coach Sean Lynn is looking forward to leading the team in the upcoming Women’s Six Nations campaign and believes in the squad’s potential for success. Wales Women’s international Kayleigh Powell has signed a new contract with Harlequins, expressing her excitement to continue with the team.