Wales next head coach finally revealed after Warren Gatland departure

.

Some appointments feel inevitable. Others? Wildcards waiting in the wings. Let’s break it down.

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.

This one feels inevitable. Wales haven’t had a new full-time boss since Warren Gatland first left in 2019—yes, technically he’s back, but the end is near.

Enter Steve Tandy.

Currently Scotland’s defence guru, Tandy has quietly built a stellar rep in coaching circles. Six years of consistently smart work with Gregor Townsend’s men has put him firmly on the WRU’s radar.

Insiders say Tandy’s name keeps surfacing in WRU boardrooms, and new performance chief Dave Reddin is reportedly a fan. The timing lines up, and Tandy knows Welsh rugby inside out from his Ospreys days.

Franco Smith and Simon Easterby have also been linked, but Tandy’s the front-runner—and it’s not close.

Andy Farrell isn’t going anywhere 

yet—but when he does, it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Paul O’Connell stepping up.

The former Ireland captain has quietly carved out a strong coaching résumé. He’s currently working wonders with the Irish pack and has built trust within the camp.

He’s not just a legend on the pitch—three Lions tours, 108 Ireland caps, two Heineken Cups with Munster—O’Connell brings leadership, intensity, and serious rugby IQ.

He's turned down Munster twice, citing inexperience and readiness. But if Farrell steps aside post-2025 or after the next World Cup, don’t be surprised if O’Connell finally says yes.

Gregor Townsend’s days may be numbered. Out of contract next year and underwhelming at two World Cups, the SRU may be ready to turn the page.

Franco Smith could be that next chapter.

He’s taken Glasgow from inconsistent to irresistible, with an attacking edge that suits Scotland’s natural strengths. A former Italy boss, Smith’s vision is bold, and his impact immediate.

There’s also a wildcard: Greig Laidlaw. Coaching in Japan, still cutting his teeth, but with 76 caps and a reputation for leadership, the former captain could be a long-term option.

Here's a curveball. England might try to bring Andy Farrell home when Borthwick departs following the 2027 Rugby World Cup

Farrell’s locked in with Ireland until after the World Cup, and he’s currently leading the British & Irish Lions—but there’s unfinished business with the RFU. He was part of the England setup that flamed out at the 2015 home World Cup, and that still stings.

Should Ireland’s cycle end and England come calling, don’t rule it out.

The RFU loves a redemption story—and Farrell might be ready to write his own.

12 years have passed since Warren Gatland’s men roared to a famous series win over Australia, but how well do you really remember the iconic 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?

From legendary leaders to surprise selections, we’ve lined up every player from that unforgettable tour. All you have to do is name them. No pressure, right?

Take the quiz below and prove your rugby brain still bites.

? Scroll down and get cracking – how many can you get without cheating?