Two Welsh icons could reunite in a potential new coaching team for Wales, as the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) gears up to take Welsh rugby forward. The WRU has set its sights on Steve Tandy as Warren Gatland’s long-term successor and will be engaging in discussions with the Scotland defence coach in the coming weeks. While no deal has been finalised yet, Tandy will likely have a say in shaping his coaching team, similar to other coaches the WRU has been in talks with during this process.
A few Welsh coaches are being considered for roles in the new coaching team, with Matt Sherratt being a strong contender. Sherratt, who took over as interim head coach for the final three Six Nations games after Gatland’s departure, demonstrated his coaching prowess with an improved performance against Ireland. Known for his innovative attacking strategies, Sherratt could complement a defensively focused head coach like Tandy or Easterby.
Another potential candidate for the coaching team is Danny Wilson, the head coach at English club Harlequins. Wilson, highly respected in Welsh rugby circles, has a background in coaching various Welsh teams and led Cardiff to Challenge Cup victory in 2018. Known for his expertise in forwards and set-piece coaching, Wilson’s Welsh connections and coaching skills make him a strong contender for a role with Wales.
Adam Jones, a Wales legend and scrum coach at Harlequins, is also on the radar. With a wealth of experience in coaching the scrum and developing young props, Jones could prove invaluable to Wales, particularly in addressing the team’s struggles at tighthead prop in recent years. Known for his technical expertise and mentorship qualities, Jones could play a crucial role in the national team setup and development pathway.
Duncan Jones, a former Wales prop and senior coach at Ospreys, is another potential addition to the coaching team. Considered one of the best technical coaches in Welsh rugby, Jones has played a key role in the development of Ospreys’ scrum. His expertise in forwards and set-piece coaching could complement the skills of other coaches in the potential new setup, making him a valuable asset to Wales.
The prospect of these Welsh coaching icons reuniting in a new coaching team for Wales has generated excitement within the rugby community. As the WRU works towards assembling a dynamic coaching team to guide Wales forward, the combination of experience, technical expertise, and Welsh rugby knowledge among these coaches could prove instrumental in shaping the future success of the national team.
With potential discussions underway and decisions to be made in the coming weeks, Welsh rugby fans will be eagerly anticipating the announcement of the new coaching team. The blend of familiar faces and fresh perspectives in the coaching setup could mark an exciting chapter for Welsh rugby, with the aim of building on past successes and striving for further accomplishments on the international stage.