The four main contenders to replace Warren Gatland as Wales boss

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The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has announced the departure of Warren Gatland by mutual agreement following a record-breaking 14-game losing streak, culminating in a devastating 22-15 defeat to Italy in Rome.

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Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt will step in as interim head coach for the remaining three Six Nations fixtures while continuing his commitments with Cardiff for their upcoming game against Connacht.

However, the decision has left many Welsh fans puzzled, as no long-term replacement has been confirmed. So, who is next in line to take on the challenge of reviving Welsh rugby?

Here are five leading candidates for the job.

1. Michael Cheika – Leicester Tigers Head Coach

Cheika is currently leading Leicester Tigers on a one-year deal, which he is not expected to extend beyond this season. That could open the door for Wales to swoop in for the experienced Australian.

With previous head coaching stints at Australia and Argentina, Cheika boasts significant international pedigree. Ironically, he masterminded Argentina's quarter-final victory over Wales at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Cheika is the bookmakers' favourite to replace Gatland. However, if Wales opt for him, they may need an interim coach to bridge the gap until the end of his Leicester tenure—a potential complication, particularly with Wales' summer tour of Japan carrying major implications for World Cup seeding.

2. Simon Easterby – Ireland Head Coach (Interim)

Currently standing in for Andy Farrell as Ireland's head coach while Farrell prepares for the British and Irish Lions tour, Easterby has been part of the Irish coaching setup since 2014. Before that, he gained experience coaching at the Scarlets.

Although this Six Nations marks his first stint as an international head coach, his familiarity with the Welsh game makes him a compelling candidate. The WRU will have the opportunity to directly assess his credentials throughout the tournament before making a move.

Easterby is joint-third favourite with bookmakers and has strong backing from sections of the Welsh fanbase.

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