Gatland says goodbye as one of SA's best emerges as candidate

SPOTLIGHT: It seems a few names have been thrown into the coaching hat after Warren Gatland left his role as Wales’ head coach with immediate effect.

The news broke early on Tuesday before official confirmation from the Welsh Rugby Union came later in the day.

Gatland was contracted until the end of the 2027 World Cup, but there were question marks around his role after a record 14 straight Test defeats.

The WRU will be searching for a long-term replacement.

According to WalesOnline, Ireland defence guru Simon Easterby and Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith are reportedly the leading candidates.

Easterby is currently interim head coach of Ireland while Andy Farrell prepares for the British and Irish Lions tour.

Meanwhile, Smith coached Glasgow Warriors to United Rugby Championship glory last season with a 21-16 win over the Bulls in the Final in Pretoria.

The Warriors are currently second in the 2024/2025 standings with seven wins from 10 games.

Smith also coach Italy, Benetton and the Cheetahs.

Source: WalesOnline

Six Nations

P

W

L

D

PF

PA

PD

BP T

BP-7

BP

Total

1

Ireland

2

2

0

0

10

2

France

2

1

1

0

6

3

England

2

1

1

0

6

4

Scotland

2

1

1

0

5

5

Italy

2

1

1

0

4

6

Wales

2

0

2

0

1