Scotland reportedly could turn to Kevin Sinfield as they look to reshuffle their coaching ticket ahead of the 2026 Six Nations.
Defence coach Steve Tandy wrapped up his duties with Gregor Townsend’s side following their summer tour, subsequently taking charge of Wales.
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The 45-year-old, a former Neath and Ospreys flanker, was still under contract with Scotland, but the WRU struck a deal to free him up early.
WRU performance boss Dave Reddin confirmed that Tandy has signed a three-year deal, keeping him in charge through to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege,” said Tandy.
Wales had been on the hunt for a long-term successor to Warren Gatland since his resignation during this year’s Six Nations.
Now, with a key vacancy in their backroom staff, Scotland may revisit a familiar name: Kevin Sinfield.
The England legend was originally brought in by Steve Borthwick as defence coach, but was later shifted to a more general skills and mentoring role. With his duties reduced, there’s talk that the RFU wouldn’t block a move north should Scotland come calling.
Sinfield’s stock remains high, and with a World Cup cycle just kicking off, Townsend could see him as the perfect fit to lead Scotland’s defensive unit.
Watch this space.
2027 Rugby World Cup draw confirmed: England play Wales
As the host nation, Australia was placed in Pool A, while the rest of the line-up was revealed as the teams were drawn.
Men’s Rugby World Cup is heading to Australia and organisers announced that it would be bigger than ever in welcoming the world: 24 nations and territories, seven cities, six weeks, one cup. Fans had been invited to register their interest for pre-sale details.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson was joined on stage by former Rugby World Cup winner and All Blacks legend Dan Carter, Australia’s most-capped male player, James Slipper, and Australian Olympics gold medallist, Alicia Lucas, as they conducted the draw.
Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.
The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:
Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada
2027 Rugby World Cup draw:
Pool A
New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.
Pool B
South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.
Pool C
Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.
