WRU have two man shortlist to replace Wales boss Warren Gatland

Tuesday, 11 February 2025 at 08:23

byRugby Rucker

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, that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has already decided to trigger a break clause in Gatland’s deal this summer.

WalesOnline reports

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.

"Can’t go on" – Wales legends slam dire Rome display

Former Wales stars Jamie Roberts and Dan Biggar have not held back in their criticism of Wales' shocking performance in Rome, calling it one of the worst in recent years.

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Roberts, the ex-centre, admitted: "Everyone was expecting a kick-back from the disappointing night in Paris, [but] our kicking game at times was schoolboy."

Meanwhile, Biggar didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts on Warren Gatland’s future, saying: "I don't think anything is off the table at the moment, it can't be. It can't carry on."

The former fly-half added: "It is such a shame because there are so many good people there who have had success previously, but clearly what is happening in the week is not working on the pitch."

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.

England vs Scotland – Saturday, 22 February (16:45 GMT)

Location: Twickenham, London
Supercomputer Prediction: England win (61%)
Predicted Score: England 23-19 Scotland

The Calcutta Cup always delivers drama, and this clash at Twickenham is expected to be no different. England’s dramatic last-gasp victory over France last time out has boosted confidence, while Scotland will be eager to bounce back after their home defeat to Ireland.

The supercomputer sees this one as a tight contest, but ultimately, England are tipped to edge it in front of their home crowd.

Italy vs France – Sunday, 23 February (15:00 GMT)

Location: Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Supercomputer Prediction: France win (80%)
Predicted Score: Italy 12-31 France

Italy’s victory over Wales may have given them some confidence, but the supercomputer predicts a return to reality against France.

Despite their shock defeat to England, Les Bleus remain a formidable side and are expected to overpower the Azzurri in Rome. The visitors will be looking to get their campaign back on track with a convincing win.

Latest Six Nations Results:

Italy 22-15 Wales – A shock win for the Azzurri in Rome
England 26-25 France – A thriller at Twickenham, sealed in the dying moments
Ireland 32-18 Scotland – Irish dominance continues at Murrayfield