Dave Reddin steps in with new candidates in Wales head coach search
Dave Reddin is about to stamp his own authority on the Welsh Rugby Union's search for a new head coach.
The WRU's new director of rugby and elite performance does not start full-time until September 1, but will be heavily involved in the search for Warren Gatland's long-term replacement. WRU chiefs sounded out a number of potential candidates before Reddin's appointment, with Scotland defence coach Steve Tandy the leading contender for the vacant role.
But WalesOnline understands Reddin has looked at the work that has gone on before his appointment and wants to stamp his own authority on proceedings by bringing new names to the table.
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The WRU will retain Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt as interim head coach for this summer's tour of Japan because they have left it too late in the day to get a permanent replacement for Gatland in time.
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The likes of Tandy, Ireland coach Simon Easterby and Glasgow Warriors' Franco Smith remain strong contenders for the job but WalesOnline understands Reddin wants to also look at some new options.
Wales could also consider former England head coach Stuart Lancaster who has been out of work since parting ways with Racing 92.
Lancaster was a contender for the Wallabies job but Rugby Australia instead opted for Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss to succeed Joe Schmidt in 2026, meaning the former England coach is back on the market.
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In a previous interview Reddin said he wanted the new head coach to be fully immersed in the Welsh game, with the remit expected to go over and above just coaching the team.
Working with Wales' four professional clubs - Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets - is also essential along with the senior pathway.
"The head coach should be someone who is collaborative, curious and open-minded, as opposed to coming in with a very fixed view of, 'This is how I do it'," said Reddin.
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"This is not a part-time thing. We want someone who is part of the system all of the time and is going to be interacting with junior teams, academies and regions; not just being there for the Test matches."
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