David Moffett launches Warren Gatland attack, names next Wales coach

Former Welsh Rugby Union boss David Moffett has called for bold changes to be quickly made, sacking Warren Gatland as Wales boss and appointing someone like Dai Young before the start of the 2025 Guinness Six Nations.

The New Zealand-based sports administrator was WRU CEO from 2003 to 2005, an era where they went from the spiral of a then record 11 defeats in succession under Steve Hansen to winning the 2005 Six Nations Grand Slam with Mike Ruddock at the helm.

Wales finished their latest Autumn Nations Series campaign last Saturday with a thud, their 45-12 loss to the Springboks with Gatland in charge setting a new record low of 12 defeats in a row.

The Welsh are next in action in just over nine weeks when they travel to Paris to take on France on January 31 in the opening round of the Six Nations and Moffett wants the WRU to act swiftly and move Gatland on.

Now working as chairman/CEO for South Island Kea, the New Zealand group formed with the aim of winning an NRL licence when that rugby league competition next open up bids, Moffett has shared his thoughts on the current plight of Wales, who last won a match when beating Georgia in a pool game at Rugby World Cup 2023.

Writing on LinkedIn, he said: “A leader in decline. It’s painful to admit, since the WM (Western Mail) headline where I urged (David) Pickering to get on a plane and get Gatland. Warren Gatland’s recent performances as coach have left much to be desired.

“His return to Wales has seen a record-breaking slump, including 12 consecutive Test match losses, the worst in Welsh rugby’s 143-year history. Gatland himself has acknowledged this disastrous run, stating he would support ‘whatever the best decision for Welsh rugby is’ even if that means stepping aside.

“While this might sound selfless, it reflects a lack of conviction and confidence that has become increasingly apparent. His remarks about staying only if Welsh rugby supports him don’t inspire hope; they come across as disengaged and even dismissive of the fans’ passion and expectations?.

“One of his most contentious statements was his suggestion that fans and the media should avoid ‘knee-jerk reactions’. This tone feels more like a rebuke to those who have poured their hearts into the game rather than a rallying cry for improvement.

“When Gatland returned to New Zealand to coach Waikato, his tenure ended in disappointment. The same scenario seems to be playing out in Wales where the team’s performances and morale have nosedived?.

“It’s time for the Welsh Rugby Union to make bold changes. Let’s not wait for the Six Nations to solidify another year of mediocrity. Appoint someone like Dai Young, who has shown resilience and tactical acumen. The Welsh fans deserve a coach who is fully engaged, passionate, and capable of building a team that reflects their enduring love for the sport.

“Gatland’s legacy will always include his past successes, but history cannot be the sole justification for keeping him in charge. Professional rugby is a results-driven sport, and Welsh rugby needs a leader who embraces the challenges head-on – not one who dwells on former glories or prepares exit strategies.”