Warren Gatland takes back the helm for Wales
The former Welsh coach returns to the post in place of Wayne Pivac, who was sacked after disappointing Test matches this autumn.
New Zealander Warren Gatland has been appointed Wales national coach to replace Wayne Pivac, notably in relation to key 2023 deadlines, the Six Nations and the World Cup, the Welsh Union (WRU) announced on Monday.
The 59-year-old New Zealand technician captained the Welsh side from 2007 until the 2019 World Cup in Japan, where they reached the semi-finals.
Under his leadership, the Leek XV again reached the last four at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand. The former Waikato hooker has led Welsh to three Grand Slams at the Six Nations Championship in 2008, 2012 and 2019.
Wayne Bivac, 60, who succeeded him in 2019, has led Wales to another Six Nations victory in 2021 but without real convincing, despite the emergence of a new talent, winger Louis Rhys Zammit.
Disappointing results for selection during the last fall tour, with three defeats in four of them Date at home in front of a modest georgian choice (13-12), outperformed Pivac.
“It is one of the most difficult decisions in sportsWRU CEO Steve Phillips said in a statement. Ultimately, we are in the results business and agree with Wayne that the current path for Wales is not where we want it to be, and we sincerely thank him for his time, enthusiasm, diligence and efforts as head coach over the past three years.“before adding”With Warren, we employ one of the best coaches in world rugby.»
Gatland has also captained the British and Irish Lions on three tours: Australia in 2013, New Zealand in 2017 and South Africa in 2021.
He will now have to prepare for the next edition of the tournament, which the Welshman will start on February 4 against Ireland, and then the World Cup, which will be held in France from September 8 to October 28.
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