Gatland at training
British and Irish Lions and Current Wales head coach Warren Gatland has reacted in cryptic fashion in saying that the impending departure of Wales Rugby Union Chief Executive Roger Lewis “probably does” affect his own long-term future. Lewis has announced that, after nine years in charge, he will leave his post following the World Cup in October.
After answering in the affirmative whether he could see it affecting his role as Wales coach going forward Gatland refused to elaborate.
Lewis is the man who gave the Wales contract to the kiwi head coach back in 2008, which should see him in the post until the RWC in 2019 (making him the best paid coach in the game also). The fact Gatland is unsure about his own future could be due to the fact he doesn’t think he will get the same backing from Lewis’ replacement, and in the light of Wales recent form, you can see why.
“The relationship the national team has had with Roger in terms of the support he has given us since I have been here is outstanding,” Gatland said. “There is no doubt we have got some of the best rugby facilities in the world. And when we have gone to Roger to ask for things for the team, whether it’s been staff or facilities, he’s been absolutely outstanding.”
What do you think of the situation? If Gatland does go, who will replace him?
Great coach but if results start to go into the negative consistently then I’m afraid Gats will have done his time. Players are looking a bit stale and you feel they need a new voice.