Shaun Edwards to depart France with immediate effect

According to leading French publication

L’Équipe, Edwards is expected to be replaced by Gérald Bastide, the current French women’s defence coach, in a move that would bring an end to one of the most successful coaching spells in modern international rugby.

Bastide, who previously worked under Guy Novès between 2015 and 2017 and has held coaching roles at Perpignan, is reportedly being lined up to take charge of France’s defensive systems. The 54-year-old is expected to be involved with France A for their fixture against England A in Vannes on June 19.

The development comes as a huge surprise given Edwards’ importance to Fabien Galthié’s regime and the fact he remains contracted to the French Rugby Federation until 2028.

Edwards' rugby pedigree is virtually unmatched. As a player, the Wigan-born legend won 37 major honours during a remarkable rugby league career with Wigan, London Broncos and Bradford Bulls. He also represented Great Britain and England, earning a reputation as one of the toughest and most intelligent players of his generation.

After switching codes, Edwards joined Wasps in 2001 as defence coach before becoming head coach in 2005. Alongside Warren Gatland, he helped transform the club into a European powerhouse, winning the Heineken Cup and three Premiership titles.

His partnership with Gatland continued with Wales, where Edwards became one of the most respected coaches in world rugby. During a 12-year spell, Wales won four Six Nations Championships, three Grand Slams and reached two Rugby World Cup semi-finals.

Since arriving in France in 2019, Edwards has revolutionised Les Bleus’ defensive structure, helping turn them into one of the most complete teams in world rugby. His influence was instrumental in France’s Grand Slam success in 2022 and their continued dominance in the Six Nations.

The 59-year-old has long been regarded as the greatest coach England never managed to appoint. The RFU held discussions with Edwards on multiple occasions, most notably in 2022, before he committed his future to France.

With reports now suggesting his departure is imminent, speculation is already mounting that England could make another attempt to bring him into Steve Borthwick’s coaching team ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

If Shaun Edwards does leave France, England should move heaven and earth to secure his services. Coaches with his track record simply do not become available very often. While Richard Wigglesworth has made encouraging strides with England’s defence, Edwards remains the gold standard in the field. An opportunity to add arguably the greatest defensive coach of the professional era could prove too good for the RFU to ignore.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

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