The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) announced Steve Tandy as the new head coach of the men's national team on Monday, bringing to an end months of speculation following Warren Gatland's departure earlier this year.
Tandy, a Welshman who has most recently served as Scotland's highly respected defence coach, will officially take up his new role on September 1.
The appointment sees Tandy return to Welsh rugby, where he previously enjoyed a successful stint as head coach of the Ospreys from 2012 to 2018, leading them to a Pro12 title in his first season.
Since then, he has gained valuable international experience, including a pivotal role in Scotland's coaching setup and a stint as defence coach for the British & Irish Lions' tour of South Africa in 2021.
Abi Tierney, chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, expressed confidence in the new appointment. "After a thorough and detailed appointment process, Steve emerged as the standout candidate, and we know we have secured the very best coach for the job.
"This is a keystone appointment for us and an integral part of our five-year strategy as we look to achieve sustainable success for our senior men's side. Steve fits the bill in terms of the affinity he will be able to create with a young group of players with huge potential, but also the galvanising effect we know he can have on the whole rugby ecosystem as a proud Welshman."
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Tandy himself shared his excitement about taking on the challenge of leading his home nation. "Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege," he said.
"I am looking forward to playing a role in the rebuilding phase of Welsh rugby and taking the national team back to competing with the best countries in the world. I am excited about the potential of Welsh rugby and the group of young, hardworking players we have."
His first match in charge will be against Argentina in Cardiff on November 9, kicking off a challenging autumn international series that also includes fixtures against Japan, New Zealand, and world champions South Africa.
With Wales enduring a turbulent period, which included a national-record 18-Test losing run that only recently ended against Japan, Tandy faces a significant task.
His strong defensive acumen and experience with developing young talent, however, are seen as crucial assets in steering Welsh rugby back towards consistent success, with an eye firmly on the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
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