Warren Gatland steps down as Wales head coach with Easterby lined up

"I am conscious and well aware that if things don't improve, then there is likely to be a change from the union."

The New Zealander led his side to an unprecedented 14 straight defeats, and they have slipped to 12th in the world rankings.

Although contracted until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Gatland was expected to step down after the ongoing Six Nations.

However, following a dreadful 22-15 loss to Italy on the weekend, his time is now up.

Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt has been appointed as interim head coach.

Gatland's comments last month suggested that he knew his time could soon be up.

He said: "I am conscious and well aware that if things don't improve, then there is likely to be a change from the union. I have been pretty straight up about it, but for me it is about rising to the challenge of making sure we go out there and perform well."

WRU CEO Abi Tierney said in a statement: “The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament,” said Tierney.

“We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won.

“Matt Sherratt takes over at a pivotal time. It is a credit to him that he has not hesitated to answer Wales’s call and is also testament to the strong relationship that now exists throughout the Welsh professional game that Cardiff Rugby are fully supportive of the move.

“Matt will return to Cardiff Rugby after the Six Nations in order to concentrate his efforts on what is already a promising campaign for our capital club.

“Our intention is to have a permanent appointment in place before this summer’s two-Test tour to Japan, with all options open.”

Gatland's original spell as Wales head coach lasted for 12 years, and saw them win four Six Nations Championships - including three Grand Slams - reach two World Cup semi-finals, go on a record 14-win streak, and briefly top the world rankings.

WalesOnline are reporting that Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby and Glasgow head coach Franco Smith are being targeted as his replacement, while current Leicester head coach Michael Cheika is also in the running.

English-born Easterby has a long association with Wales. He played for the Scarlets for most of his career, before stepping up as a coach after his retirement in 2010, and becoming head coach of the side from 2012-2014.

The 46-year-old - who played for Ireland before joining their coaching set-up in 2014 as forwards coach and then defence coach - resides in Wales and is married to Welsh television presenter Sarra Elgan.

South African Smith has turned Glasgow Warriors into a force during his tenure, winning the URC title last season with a victory in the final away to the Bulls.

He is contracted until 2026, but with Gregor Townsend and Scotland not making much progress, an international future for Smith may lie with the Scots.