Warren Gatland breaks silence after he leaves Wales mid-way through the Six Nations following FOURTEEN defeats in a row - as WRU confirm replacement

Warren Gatland admitted it was time for change in Welsh rugby after he departed his role as Wales head coach, with Matt Sherratt taking over for the rest of the Six Nations. As revealed by Mail Sport, Gatland has moved on after presiding over a record run of 14 consecutive international losses – the last of which was a 22-15 defeat by Italy in Rome last Saturday. Sherratt, currently head coach of Cardiff, will now be in charge of Wales for the team’s remaining 2025 Championship games with Ireland, Scotland and England on an interim basis.

Gatland and the Welsh Rugby Union have agreed to part ways by mutual agreement. After returning for a second stint as Wales head coach in December 2022, Gatland’s tenure has seen him win just six of 26 games in charge. ‘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,’ Gatland said.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has left his role after overseeing 14 defeats in a row. Wales were beaten 22-15 by Italy on Saturday and that proved to be the final straw for Gatland. Cardiff coach Matt Sherratt has been appointed in Gatland's place for the rest of Six Nations. ‘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.’. Current Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika, Glasgow’s Franco Smith and Simon Easterby – in charge of Ireland for this Six Nations – are all of interest to the WRU hierarchy longer term, but none will be able to take on the role for the rest of the Six Nations.

That is why Sherratt has been tasked with coming in for now. ‘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 WRU chief executive Abi Tierney. ‘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. ‘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.

Gatland admitted it was time for a change in Welsh rugby after his departure was confirmed. The opening night of this year's Six Nations had seen Wales be thrashed 43-0 by France. During his first stint in charge between 2007 to 2019, Gatland won four Six Nations titles. ‘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 and has also coached at the Ospreys, Bristol and Worcester. Sherratt also worked with Wales as an assistant coach in 2017.

Cardiff Rugby chair Alun Jones said: ‘We are really proud as a club 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.