URC boss cashes in his coaching chips
12/17/2024 09:35 AM
The experienced Toby Booth has departed the Ospreys with immediate effect, paving the way for Mark Jones to take over as head coach at the Welsh club earlier than planned.
Booth, who joined the Vodacom URC outfit from Harlequins in 2020, was initially set to leave at the end of the season. However, the Englishman’s exit comes just days before a derby against the Scarlets.
The decision follows a tough season for the Ospreys, including a record 59-15 loss to Montpellier in the EPCR Challenge Cup last week.
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Under Booth, the Ospreys clinched two URC Welsh Shield wins and a playoff berth in the competition last season. Yet, they are currently 14th on the overall standings after five defeats in seven matches.
In a statement, the Ospreys thanked Booth for his contributions, highlighting his achievements during challenging times. “Toby led the team to significant milestones,” it read, “and we wish him the best in his future endeavours.”
Jones, a former Wales wing and current assistant coach at Ospreys, will be supported by the existing coaching team, with Justin Tipuric set to join the staff as a defence coach upon retirement.
This marks the second major coaching change in Welsh rugby this season, following Dai Flanagan's departure from the Dragons.
Photo: Chris Fairweather/Gallo Images
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