Welsh Rugby Union to Offer Steve Tandy Wales Head Coach Position with Interim Duo for Summer Tour Lineup
In recent reports by Wales Online, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is on the brink of extending an offer to Steve Tandy for the prestigious role of Wales’ new head coach. Initially, Tandy emerged as the leading contender for the position, alongside Simon Easterby and Franco Smith. However, latest insights reveal that the Scotland defence coach has been earmarked as Warren Gatland’s successor in the long term.
While the decision is imminent, sources suggest that Tandy might not assume the role in time for the upcoming summer tour in Japan. For this interim period, it is anticipated that Matt Sherratt of Cardiff Blues and Danny Wilson of Harlequins will lead the team during the two-test series slated for July.
Tandy boasts a rich coaching history, having served as the head coach for the Ospreys from 2012 to 2018, following which he ventured to Australia to oversee the Waratahs’ defence. His successful stint in Sydney paved the way for his role as Scotland’s defence coach in 2019, where he significantly bolstered the team’s defensive capabilities on the global stage.
If Tandy accepts the WRU’s proposal, reports indicate a potential collaboration with Sherratt as attack coach and Wilson in charge of the forwards. Furthermore, there are speculations that Adam Jones will reassume his duties as scrum coach under Tandy’s leadership.
The task at hand is formidable, with Welsh rugby enduring a prolonged dry spell, encompassing a record streak of 17 test matches without a victory, including consecutive wooden spoon finishes. The WRU’s strategic vision under the “One Wales” strategy aims to elevate Wales to a top-five global ranking in the long run, alongside revitalising the fortunes of the country’s professional clubs.
The immediate focus remains on the summer tour to Japan, where swift decisions are imperative. In the event that Tandy cannot transition in time, the interim management duo of Sherratt and Wilson are primed to step in and uphold the team’s preparations for the upcoming challenges.
Sherratt, who deputised during the latter stages of the Six Nations following Gatland’s sudden departure, showcased resilience despite the winless streak. Simultaneously, Wilson’s coaching pedigree, marked by successes at Cardiff and significant contributions at Glasgow Warriors and Harlequins, positions him favourably for the upcoming responsibilities.
In another development, it is anticipated that former FA executive Dave Reddin will soon be appointed as the new director of rugby, amplifying the restructuring efforts within the WRU.
As the anticipation builds around Tandy’s potential appointment and the upcoming summer tour, stakeholders and fans eagerly await the official announcements that will shape the future trajectory of Welsh rugby. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving narrative.