Matt Sherratt signed a new long-term deal with Cardiff Rugby shortly after being named Wales interim head coach in February Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt will resume as Wales' interim head coach for the two-Test tour of Japan in July. Wales are searching for a permanent head coach following the departure of Warren Gatland in February. That process is being led by new director of rugby Dave Reddin but the successor will not be in place for the summer programme, with Sherratt again taking the reins. Sherratt will be joined in his backroom staff by his Cardiff defence coach Gethin Jenkins, Harlequins duo Danny Wilson (forwards) and Adam Jones (scrum) and Gloucester's Rhys Thomas. Jonathan Humphreys, Mike Forshaw, Alex King and Rob Howley, who were part of Warren Gatland's backroom staff, will not be involved in Japan. Wales are expected to add a kicking coach with Leigh Halfpenny linked with the role Neil Jenkins has occupied. Sherratt was put in charge of Wales after just two matches of the 2025 Six Nations following Gatland's departure but lost his three games at the helm against Ireland, Scotland and then England - a record 68-14 defeat in Cardiff. Jenkins will return to the Wales defence coach role he held under Wayne Pivac before he was deemed surplus to requirements when Gatland returned in December 2022. "I'm delighted to have the opportunity to return and coach Wales again this summer," said Sherratt. "It's an exciting prospect to go to Japan for two matches in July. We are all looking forward to getting into camp and starting preparations for our summer campaign." WRU chief executive Abi Tierney says they are grateful to Sherratt taking over the reins. "The impact and positive difference he made to the squad in a very short period of time during the Six Nations was welcomed," said Tierney. "It was a tough campaign but we know we are in safe hands whilst we complete the final stages of our recruitment process for a new permanent head coach." Former Wales full-back Halfpenny would be involved for the first time as the kicking coach. The 36-year-old ex-British and Irish Lion has left Harlequins and is expected to continue playing by joining French second division side Beziers next season. Wales will look to end a record run of successive 17 Test losses in Japan, having not won an international since October 2023 with two successive Six Nations Wooden Spoons. Wales will play the Test matches against Eddie Jones' Japan side in Kitakyushu and Kobe aiming not to slip from their lowest ever position of 12th in the world rankings. The first Test, at Kitakyushu's Mikuni World Stadium, will take place on 5 July in the city where Wales held their Rugby World Cup training camp in 2019. The second Test will be played at Kobe's Noevir Stadium â which features a retractable roof â seven days later. Wales' men have won 13 of their 14 previous meetings with Japan, with the most recent encounter, in Cardiff in 2016, ending in a 33-30 victory for the home side. Wales' only loss in this fixture came in the summer of 2013 when they lost 23-8 in Tokyo.
Caretaker coach Sherratt to lead Wales in Japan
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Matt Sherratt to Lead Wales Rugby Team as Interim Coach for Japan Tour"
Bbc News
7.5
TruthLens AI Summary
Matt Sherratt has been appointed as the interim head coach for the Wales national rugby team during their upcoming two-Test tour in Japan this July. This decision follows Sherratt's recent contract extension with Cardiff Rugby and his previous experience as the interim head coach for Wales after Warren Gatland's departure in February. The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is currently in the process of selecting a permanent head coach, a task led by new director of rugby Dave Reddin. However, the new coach will not be in place in time for the summer matches, necessitating Sherratt's return to the role. He will be supported by a backroom staff that includes Cardiff's defence coach Gethin Jenkins, along with Danny Wilson, Adam Jones, and Rhys Thomas. Notably, several members of Gatland's former coaching team will not be part of the Japan tour, signaling a shift in the coaching dynamics for the national team.
The Wales team faces significant challenges as they aim to break a streak of 17 consecutive Test losses, having not secured a win since October 2023. The two matches against Japan, scheduled for July 5 and July 12, 2024, will be crucial for restoring the team's confidence and improving their current standing, which has dropped to a historic low of 12th in the world rankings. Sherratt expressed his excitement for the opportunity to lead the team once again, highlighting the importance of the upcoming tour. The matches will take place in Kitakyushu and Kobe, with Wales historically having a strong record against Japan, winning 13 of their previous 14 encounters. The last meeting between the two teams was a narrow victory for Wales in 2016, which adds to the pressure as they prepare to face Eddie Jones' Japan side in this critical series.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The news article reports on Matt Sherratt’s appointment as Wales' interim head coach for an upcoming tour of Japan. This decision comes in the wake of the departure of Warren Gatland, and it highlights the ongoing search for a permanent head coach. The article provides insights into the coaching staff and the challenges faced by Sherratt during his previous tenure.
Implications of Leadership Change
The article suggests a transitional phase for Welsh rugby, as the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) seeks a new permanent head coach. By placing Sherratt back in charge, the WRU may aim to maintain stability during this uncertain time. This move may be viewed as a strategic decision to reassure fans and players that the team is in capable hands, especially after a disappointing Six Nations campaign.
Public Sentiment and Perception
There is an underlying attempt to foster a sense of optimism within the rugby community. By emphasizing Sherratt's prior contributions and the positive impact he had on the squad, the article seeks to galvanize support from fans. Quotes from both Sherratt and WRU chief executive Abi Tierney serve to create a narrative of continuity and potential improvement, despite recent challenges.
Potential Omissions or Unaddressed Issues
While the article provides a factual update, it glosses over the deeper implications of Sherratt's previous record, including the three losses he suffered in his earlier stint. This omission may be intentional, as it allows the WRU to sidestep discussions about the team's performance and instead focus on the excitement of upcoming matches.
Comparative Context
When compared to other sports news articles, this piece reflects a common strategy of framing leadership changes in a positive light. It aligns with broader narratives in sports, where interim coaches are often portrayed as catalysts for change, regardless of their past performance. This technique is frequently employed in sports journalism to maintain fan engagement during periods of uncertainty.
Impact on Broader Context
This news may influence the rugby community and its stakeholders, including sponsors and investors, as it illustrates the WRU's proactive approach to leadership. The choice of Sherratt may also impact team morale and preparation for upcoming matches, crucial for re-establishing Wales' competitive edge in international rugby.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at rugby fans, players, and stakeholders within the Welsh rugby community. By focusing on Sherratt's return and the anticipation surrounding the Japan tour, it seeks to engage those invested in the team's future and performance.
Market Reactions
While this development may not have a direct impact on stock markets or global financial trends, it could be significant for sponsors and stakeholders connected to Welsh rugby. Companies associated with the team or the sport in general may experience fluctuations in interest or investment depending on the team's performance.
Geopolitical Relevance
The news does not appear to have significant geopolitical implications; however, it does reflect broader themes of leadership and transition that can resonate beyond sports. The dynamics within national teams can mirror political or organizational changes in other sectors.
Artificial Intelligence Considerations
It is unlikely that AI played a major role in the writing of this article; however, if it were employed, it might have influenced the tone and structure to ensure clarity and engagement. Automated tools could have been used to ensure that the article maintains a neutral stance while highlighting positive narratives.
In conclusion, the article serves to reassure the public and stakeholders about the direction of Welsh rugby during a period of transition. While it contains factual information, the emphasis on optimism and potential improvements suggests an intention to cultivate support for the interim leadership.