Wayne Pivac Backs Steve Tandy To Lead Wales After Gatland

By Joshua Muhindo

Wayne Pivac has named his preferred successor to Warren Gatland as Wales head coach—and it’s not interim boss Matt Sherratt.

Pivac, who led Wales between 2020 and 2022, recently left his post at Japan’s Green Rockets and shared his thoughts on the national side’s future ahead of their July tour to Japan.

While Sherratt is set to remain in charge for that tour, despite overseeing a record 68-14 home defeat to England in the Six Nations, Pivac believes a more experienced figure should be handed the long-term role.

He has endorsed Steve Tandy, Scotland’s current defense coach and a former Ospreys boss, as a “great appointment” due to his blend of regional and international experience.

Tandy has earned widespread respect since joining Gregor Townsend’s setup and has been credited with transforming Scotland’s defensive resilience over the past few seasons.

Pivac argues that Tandy’s Welsh roots, understanding of the domestic scene, and proven international pedigree make him a strong candidate for the WRU to consider as they plot a long-term revival.

While Pivac acknowledged that Sherratt is doing a fine job with Cardiff, he emphasized the need for a more strategic and experienced coaching setup to bring consistency and competitiveness back to Welsh rugby.

The WRU is under pressure to halt a historic losing streak, with the team currently enduring 17 straight Test defeats—the worst in their history.

Speculation over Gatland’s long-term future has continued since the Six Nations, and the results of the summer tour could influence WRU decision-making.

No official word has yet been given on whether Sherratt will be retained permanently or replaced after the tour.

With several credible Welsh coaches in the pipeline, the WRU now faces a crucial decision about who can rebuild trust and performance on the international stage.