Warren Gatland set to take over as head coach ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup

The former Wales and British & Irish Lions boss has emerged as the leading candidate as Georgian Rugby moves quickly to appoint a high-profile successor.

Cockerill, who turns 55 on Friday, has stepped down from his roles as head coach of the Georgian national team and the Black Lion franchise with immediate effect.

He took charge of the Lelos at the start of the 2024 Rugby Europe Men’s Championship after replacing Levan Maisashvili and went on to win 14 of his 21 matches in charge.

Under Cockerill, Georgia claimed back-to-back Rugby Europe Championship titles and secured qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

However, frustration had been growing behind the scenes. All 14 victories came against sides Georgia were expected to beat, while the failure to register a landmark win over a Tier 1 nation became a growing concern.

Warren Gatland is one of the most decorated coaches in the modern game.

The New Zealand-born coach first rose to prominence with Ireland before overseeing two highly successful spells as head coach of Wales, winning four Six Nations titles, including three Grand Slams.

Gatland also coached the British & Irish Lions on three tours, leading the famous touring side to series victories over Australia in 2013 and New Zealand in 2017.

Renowned for his ability to build disciplined, resilient teams and maximise limited resources, Gatland’s appointment would represent a major statement of intent from Georgian Rugby.

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

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.

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.

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.

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!