Another surprising day in Welsh rugby is unfolding
MATT Sherratt will be Wales head coach for the final three fixtures of the Men’s Six Nations Championship, the Welsh Rugby Union has announced.
The Cardiff Rugby head coach steps into the role as Warren Gatland ended his tenure with the WRU by mutual agreement this morning.
“The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament,” said Abi Tierney, CEO of the WRU.
“We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won.
“Matt Sherratt takes over at a pivotal time. It is a credit to him that he has not hesitated to answer Wales’s call and is also testament to the strong relationship that now exists throughout the Welsh professional game that Cardiff Rugby are fully supportive of the move.”
In a statement released by the WRU shortly before a scheduled press conference was delayed by an hour, Tierney thanked Gatland for his tenure and has asked the country to get behind Sherratt for the games against Ireland, Scotland and England.
“Matt will return to Cardiff Rugby after the Six Nations in order to concentrate his efforts on what is already a promising campaign for our capital club,” said Tierney
“Our intention is to have a permanent appointment in place before this summer’s two-Test tour to Japan, with all options open.”
Sherratt became Cardiff Rugby head coach in 2023 but has also been attack coach and coached at the Ospreys, Bristol and Worcester.
Alun Jones, chair of Cardiff Rugby, in a statement issued by the club, said, “First of all we are really proud as a club that Matt is getting this recognition and opportunity. He is a fantastic person and coach, and he deserves this opportunity.
“He has a track record of developing talent, getting the best from young players and utilising a positive playing style. That is clear to see from the rebuilding job he has done at the club and continues to lead.
“This is obviously a time of need and we are happy to support not only Matt’s continued development but the Welsh Rugby Union in the Six Nations. I am sure he will do a great job and look forward to him returning following the Championship’s conclusion.”
Sherratt will remain in charge of Cardiff Rugby for their game against Connacht in the BKT United Rugby Championship on Saturday (February 15) and will join the national team on Monday February 17.
Gatland was appointed for his second stint as Wales head coach in December 2022 and led his side through two Six Nations and the 2023 Rugby World Cup – winning just six fixtures in a 26 game span.
“I would like to thank the WRU Board for the faith shown in me after a tough campaign throughout 2024 and affording me the time and resource to try to turn things around for this 2025 tournament,” said Gatland.
“We have worked hard, we have a talented young squad that is developing and have been desperate to turn potential into results but now is the right time for a change.
“I’ve reached the end of this particular chapter, but I remain grateful to all those in Wales who have supported me, to all the players who have played for me and to all those around me, especially my management team, who have contributed to what we have achieved over the years. I wish whoever takes over all the best for the future.
“Finally, I want to say a big thank you to the Welsh fans.”
Who is the favourite to fill the roll after the Six Nations?
According to Online Betting Guide Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika is currently the bookies favourite.
- Michael Cheika – Leicester Tigers Head Coach – 3/1
- Brad Mooar – Scotland Attack Coach – 4/1
- Franco Smith – Glasgow Warriors Head Coach – 5/1
- Simon Easterby – Interim Ireland Head Coach – 5/1
- Steve Tandy – Scotland Defence Coach – 6/1
