Four Wales Favourites Address Job Links
As the search for Warren Gatland’s successor intensifies, four top candidates in Wales have made public statements regarding their potential interest in the role. Following Wales’ disappointing performance in the recent international campaign, attention has swiftly turned to who will take over as head coach. With Gatland stepping down after a dismal defeat against Italy, interim coach Matt Sherratt has now returned to Cardiff, having salvaged some pride with a solid showing against Ireland.
Welsh Rugby Union CEO, Abi Tierney, revealed that numerous coaches have expressed interest in the position despite Wales’ recent struggles. Among the leading candidates for the role are Michael Cheika, Simon Easterby, Franco Smith, and Pat Lam. Each candidate has made statements regarding the prospect of coaching Wales, offering insights into their views and aspirations for the role.
Franco Smith, currently the head coach of Glasgow Warriors, has expressed a desire to coach international rugby again, citing his previous experience with the Italian national team. With his contract running until the end of the next season, Smith has acknowledged the speculation surrounding his potential involvement with the Welsh team, while emphasizing his focus on his current duties with the Warriors.
Meanwhile, Michael Cheika, former Australia and Argentina head coach, has been linked to the role following reports of his interest in returning to international rugby. Cheika, who is currently coaching Leicester Tigers, has been rumoured to have held discussions with Top 14 club Racing 92 regarding a coaching position. While Cheika has not publicly addressed the Wales job specifically, reports suggest that he is keen on the challenge of rebuilding the Welsh team.
Simon Easterby, interim head coach for Ireland, has dismissed rumours linking him to the vacant Wales job, affirming his commitment to his current role. Despite living in Wales and having previously played for a Welsh region, Easterby has reiterated that his focus remains on his responsibilities with Ireland. While fans may have speculated on a potential match between Easterby and Wales, the coach has maintained his dedication to his current position.
Lastly, Pat Lam, the Director of Rugby for Bristol Bears, has addressed the speculation surrounding his potential involvement with the Wales coaching role. With his contract at Bristol ending in 2028, Lam acknowledged that the rumours were flattering but highlighted his current focus and commitment to Bristol Bears. Emphasising the importance of organisational change and sustainability in rugby, Lam expressed his excitement about the progress at Bristol and the challenges ahead.
With the Wales Rugby Union considering various candidates for the head coach position, the statements from these four favourites provide insights into their perspectives and ambitions in coaching the national team. As Wales prepares to embark on a new chapter post-Gatland, the search for a successor continues, with each candidate bringing their unique experiences and vision to the forefront. Amidst the speculation and interest surrounding the role, the Welsh rugby community eagerly anticipates the announcement of Gatland’s successor and the future direction of the national team.