Former Wales Women’s head coach, Ioan Cunningham, has embarked on a new challenge as he takes on the role of head coach for Fiji Women at the upcoming Rugby World Cup this summer. Cunningham, who led Wales Women to their best Six Nations finish in 13 years in 2022, left his position with the team in 2024 after winning four times in 11 tests. Following a brief coaching stint with Llanelli Wanderers, Cunningham will now lead the Fijiana XV team at the World Cup in England, where they will compete against Wales, Scotland, and Canada in the pool stages.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunity, Cunningham stated, “The potential of this group is huge, and I am excited and honoured to be given this opportunity to work with the team and represent Fiji.” With Fiji currently ranked 16th in the world, there is optimism that Cunningham’s experience and leadership will contribute to the team’s improvement. Alana Thomas, Fiji Rugby women’s high-performance manager, praised Cunningham’s professionalism and expected his leadership to unlock the squad’s talent in what she described as an exciting year for the Vodafone Fijiana XV leading up to the Rugby World Cup.
Cunningham’s transition from Wales Women’s head coach to the role with Fiji Women signifies a significant move within the international women’s rugby coaching landscape. With his wealth of experience in the women’s game, Cunningham’s appointment is seen as a positive step towards the development and success of the Fijiana XV team. The Rugby World Cup in August will provide a platform for Cunningham to showcase his coaching abilities on a global stage and guide Fiji Women in their pursuit of success against formidable opponents.
The World Cup in England presents a challenging yet exciting opportunity for Cunningham to make his mark as an international head coach. His strategic approach and dedication to enhancing the team’s performance reflect a deep commitment to the sport and the players he mentors. As Cunningham prepares to lead Fiji Women into the prestigious tournament, his focus on unlocking the squad’s potential and fostering a culture of excellence will be pivotal in shaping their journey towards success on the world stage.
With Cunningham’s appointment generating interest and anticipation within the rugby community, all eyes will be on the Fijiana XV’s performance under his guidance. As the team prepares to face tough competition in a highly competitive environment, Cunningham’s leadership qualities and coaching acumen will be put to the test. The Rugby World Cup will not only be a showcase of international women’s rugby talent but also a reflection of Cunningham’s coaching philosophy and strategic acumen in steering Fiji Women towards their tournament goals.
In a year touted as significant for women’s rugby, Cunningham’s involvement with Fiji Women adds a compelling narrative to the Rugby World Cup. His experience, coupled with his passion for the sport, positions him as a valuable asset in the development of the Fijiana XV team. As the tournament approaches, the rugby fraternity eagerly anticipates Cunningham’s impact as he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead on the journey to Rugby World Cup glory.