In the world of Rugby, Warren Gatland’s future as the head coach of Wales hangs in the balance as he awaits a review of his position. The New Zealander, who took on the role for the second time in 2022, has presided over a record-breaking run of 12 consecutive Test match defeats, a staggering feat that has put his job in jeopardy.
Gatland’s former employers, the Chiefs, have extended an invitation for him to return to the club if he decides to leave his post with Wales. With his team coming off a winless Six Nations campaign, summer losses to Australia and South Africa, and a disappointing autumn series, Gatland finds himself facing questions about his ability to turn things around for Wales.
The pressure on Gatland has only intensified as Wales has gone a full calendar year without a victory for the first time since 1937. While it would be unfair to place all the blame on Gatland for the team’s struggles, the Welsh Rugby Union is conducting a review of his performance, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.
After the recent defeat to South Africa, Gatland expressed his motivation to continue in his role with Wales. However, he also acknowledged that he would step down if he felt it was in the best interests of Welsh rugby. The Chiefs, Gatland’s hometown club, may offer him a potential escape route from the scrutiny he faces in Wales.
The Super Rugby Pacific side is open to welcoming Gatland back to New Zealand, where he previously worked before rejoining Wales. Despite facing challenges in his return to the Chiefs, Gatland’s former CEO, Simon Graafhuis, believes that the coach still has what it takes to succeed.
Gatland’s tenure with the Chiefs saw the team struggle in Super Rugby Aotearoa, losing all eight of their games and finishing at the bottom of the table. Despite this disappointing performance, Gatland was later moved to a director of rugby role before making his return to Wales.
As Gatland awaits the outcome of the review into his position as Wales head coach, the rugby world will be watching closely to see what the future holds for the seasoned coach. Only time will tell if Gatland will continue to lead Wales or if a new chapter awaits him with the Chiefs in New Zealand.
