Scotland confirm the appointment of Ex-Wales and Fiji coach

Monday, 05 January 2026 at 20:33

bySteven Smith

Former Wales and Fiji head coach Ioan Cunningham has been appointed assistant coach for the Scotland Women’s side, linking up with head coach Sione Fukofuka, who took charge in December 2025.

Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel
and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.

Cunningham guided Fiji at last summer’s Rugby World Cup, turning heads in a pool that included both Scotland and Wales. Before that, he spent three years with Wales Women, helping them reach their highest-ever World Rugby ranking of sixth before leaving in November 2024 following a contract dispute.

He also brings experience from the men’s game, having worked as forwards coach at Scarlets and head coach of Wales Under-20s.

“I am really honoured and excited to work with Scottish Rugby, especially with the Scotland senior women’s team,” Cunningham said.
“I’m looking forward to working with such talented players and staff, adding to the growth of women’s rugby in Scotland. My grandfather was from Kilmarnock, so this is a proud moment for me and my family.”

RUCK verdict:

Cunningham’s arrival adds serious World Cup experience to Scotland’s backroom. With his proven track record in both men’s and women’s rugby, expect the squad’s forwards and game management to get a noticeable boost. A smart move that could pay dividends on the global stage.