WRU have two man shortlist to replace Wales boss Warren Gatland
Today at 03:23 AM
he writing appears to be on the wall for Warren Gatland as Wales head coach, with Simon Easterby and Franco Smith emerging as the frontrunners to replace him.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
Despite being contracted until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, WalesOnline reports that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has already decided to trigger a break clause in Gatland's deal this summer.
With a dismal run of 14 consecutive defeats, patience within the WRU has worn thin. A key board meeting on Wednesday will discuss the possibility of placing Gatland on gardening leave and appointing an interim coach for the remainder of the Six Nations.
The Leading Candidates
Wales are already lining up long-term successors, with Ireland defence coach Simon Easterby and Glasgow Warriors boss Franco Smith the two standout contenders.
Easterby, currently leading Ireland in an interim capacity while Andy Farrell focuses on the British & Irish Lions, has made a strong start to the Six Nations with wins over England and Scotland.
A former Ireland international, the 49-year-old spent most of his playing career with the Scarlets before moving into coaching, first at the Welsh club and then on the international stage in 2014.
A trusted figure in both Joe Schmidt and Farrell's Ireland set-ups, Easterby has been a key part of the most successful period in the nation's history. Notably, he still lives in Cowbridge—just a stone's throw from Wales’ training base at the Vale Resort—giving him deep knowledge of the Welsh rugby landscape.
EDITORS PICKS:
- England move up the World Rankings as Wales fall to record new low
- Tackle everything with the new ISUZU D-MAX
- Ellis Genge Clashes with Will Carling in Fiery Online Row After England's Win
- Three England players get brutal 4/10 ratings despite win against France
- BBC Question of Sport presenter and former England star 'on verge of bankruptcy'
- England move up the World Rankings as Wales fall to record new low
Supercomputer predicts the next round of the Six Nations, including England vs Scotland
Based on recent form, historical trends, and a touch of algorithmic magic, here's what to expect in Round 3 according to Sports4Cast.
Wales vs Ireland – Saturday, 22 February (14:15 GMT)
Location: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
Supercomputer Prediction: Ireland win (87%)
Predicted Score: Wales 10-35 Ireland
Wales' Six Nations woes are set to continue, with the supercomputer heavily backing Ireland to claim victory in Cardiff.
Warren Gatland's side has struggled, having lost to both Scotland and Italy, while Simon Easterby’s men are in ruthless form after dispatching England and Scotland. With Grand Slam ambitions still alive, expect Ireland to dominate.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post WRU have two man shortlist to replace Wales boss Warren Gatland appeared first on Ruck.
