Back to news
Dave Reddin steps in with new candidates in Wales head coach search
@Source: walesonline.co.uk
Dave Reddin is about to stamp his own authority on the Welsh Rugby Union's search for a new head coach. The WRU's new director of rugby and elite performance does not start full-time until September 1, but will be heavily involved in the search for Warren Gatland's long-term replacement. WRU chiefs sounded out a number of potential candidates before Reddin's appointment, with Scotland defence coach Steve Tandy the leading contender for the vacant role. But WalesOnline understands Reddin has looked at the work that has gone on before his appointment and wants to stamp his own authority on proceedings by bringing new names to the table. The WRU will retain Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt as interim head coach for this summer's tour of Japan because they have left it too late in the day to get a permanent replacement for Gatland in time. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. The likes of Tandy, Ireland coach Simon Easterby and Glasgow Warriors' Franco Smith remain strong contenders for the job but WalesOnline understands Reddin wants to also look at some new options. Wales could also consider former England head coach Stuart Lancaster who has been out of work since parting ways with Racing 92. Lancaster was a contender for the Wallabies job but Rugby Australia instead opted for Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss to succeed Joe Schmidt in 2026, meaning the former England coach is back on the market. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here. In a previous interview Reddin said he wanted the new head coach to be fully immersed in the Welsh game, with the remit expected to go over and above just coaching the team. Working with Wales' four professional clubs - Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets - is also essential along with the senior pathway. "The head coach should be someone who is collaborative, curious and open-minded, as opposed to coming in with a very fixed view of, 'This is how I do it'," said Reddin. Join WalesOnline Rugby's WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free "This is not a part-time thing. We want someone who is part of the system all of the time and is going to be interacting with junior teams, academies and regions; not just being there for the Test matches."
Related News
23 Jun, 2025
Man United handed dream Eberechi Eze tra . . .
28 Feb, 2025
Modern fire station for Navua after 36 y . . .
13 Jun, 2025
Fuel prices to go up in July despite Jun . . .
31 May, 2025
Nigel Owens gives verdict on the viral s . . .
28 Feb, 2025
2025 Deepal E07 review
11 Apr, 2025
Council Revokes Acting CEO Suspension
23 Jun, 2025
Takeaways from NBA Finals Game 7: SGA, T . . .
17 Apr, 2025
High Court fixed July 15 to commence Dra . . .