"England miss out" - Shaun Edwards favourite for Rugby World Cup coaching role

Fiji Rugby has launched a global recruitment process to find the man who will lead the Pacific Islanders into next year's tournament in Australia.

Applications officially close on September 21, with the successful candidate set to begin work on October 5 and remain in charge until the end of 2027.

The official Fiji Rugby job advertisement calls for a coach capable of creating a "world-class high-performance environment", with previous Rugby World Cup experience considered desirable.

That could put Edwards firmly in the conversation.

The highly-rated Englishman is available after ending his hugely successful spell as France defence coach earlier this year.

Fabien Galthié confirmed Edwards' departure in June, bringing an end to a seven-year association which delivered significant Six Nations success.

Edwards has never previously been the head coach of a Test nation, but his enormous international experience with Wales and France would make him an eye-catching option as Fiji look to build on their quarter-final appearance at the 2023 World Cup.

Interim boss Senirusi Seruvakula remains an obvious contender and is currently leading Fiji during their Pacific Nations Cup campaign.

Former Springboks boss Heyneke Meyer is another name to watch. Fiji Rugby chairman John Sanday revealed earlier this year that Meyer was actually the union's preferred candidate following the 2023 World Cup, before his conditions and salary expectations contributed to Mick Byrne eventually getting the job.

Warren Gatland would bring huge World Cup experience, while new Fijian Drua boss Brad Mooar could also enter the equation. Fiji Rugby has confirmed that Mooar, like Seruvakula, is free to apply for the vacancy.

No official shortlist has yet been announced, meaning there is currently no confirmation that Edwards or Gatland have applied.