Warren Gatland’s Regrets About Returning to Wales
Warren Gatland has confessed that he would have declined the opportunity to coach the Welsh rugby team if he had known about the extensive problems plaguing Welsh rugby. This season has been marked by significant turmoil, and Gatland believes that overcoming adversity can unify his team for the upcoming World Cup in France.
In a recent interview with the Scrum V podcast, Gatland expressed his frustration, particularly regarding the loss of young center Joe Hawkins, among other high-profile withdrawals from the team. He admitted that he was unaware of the magnitude of the challenges when he returned as head coach in December for his second stint.
During this tumultuous period, Welsh rugby has been embroiled in a sexism scandal within the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), witnessed the resignation of its chief executive, witnessed coaches being fired or suspended, and encountered contractual chaos leading to threats of a player strike. The national team has struggled, and the regional teams have also faced financial difficulties.
Gatland stated, “If I had been aware of the situation at the time, I would have made a different decision and chosen to go elsewhere.” He acknowledged that Welsh rugby will continue to endure financial hardships, but he believes that these challenges can serve as an opportunity for positive change.
He emphasized the potential for a fresh start, saying, “Now, with the underlying issues brought to the forefront, we have the chance to address the necessary improvements. It’s an exciting time for us, especially with the emergence of talented young players.”
Gatland has already experienced player withdrawals from his extended training squad for the World Cup. He acknowledged that Alun Wyn Jones’ retirement was not unexpected, given the ongoing discussions since the Six Nations. Injuries prevented Justin Tipuric from competing for a World Cup spot, as he felt his body wasn’t fully prepared.
Regarding Joe Hawkins, Gatland expressed disappointment, as the young player’s decision to join Exeter Chiefs after his international debut rendered him ineligible for Wales. Gatland had viewed Hawkins as a promising player for the future and was surprised by his choice to leave the Ospreys amidst the turbulence in Welsh rugby.
Despite the setbacks, Gatland remains optimistic about Wales’ prospects at the World Cup. With the departure of three former captains, he contemplates the possibility of co-leadership for the team in France. Gatland thrives on challenges and believes that lower expectations can serve as motivation for his squad. He appreciates being underestimated and considers it a driving force for his players.
As Wales continues its preparations, Gatland hopes to address the issues and prove the doubters wrong. The updated preliminary Rugby World Cup squad reflects the combination of experienced players and emerging talents that Gatland will rely on for a successful campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Warren Gatland, Welsh rugby, regrets, problems, World Cup
What regrets does Warren Gatland have regarding coaching Wales?
Warren Gatland regrets returning to coach Wales after discovering the extent of the problems within Welsh rugby. He states that if he had known about these issues, he would have made a different decision and chosen to go elsewhere.
What challenges has Welsh rugby faced recently?
Welsh rugby has encountered several challenges, including a sexism scandal within the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), the resignation of the chief executive, coaches being sacked or suspended, contractual chaos leading to player threats of a strike, financial difficulties for the national and regional teams, and a struggling national team.
Which player withdrawals have affected the Welsh team?
Warren Gatland has experienced several player withdrawals from his extended training squad for the World Cup. Notably, Alun Wyn Jones retired, Justin Tipuric felt unable to compete due to injuries, and young center Joe Hawkins became ineligible for Wales after joining Exeter Chiefs.
How does Warren Gatland view the prospects for the World Cup?
Despite the challenges and player withdrawals, Warren Gatland remains optimistic about Wales’ chances at the World Cup. He believes that the lower expectations and challenges can serve as motivation for the team, and he appreciates being underestimated, as it tends to fuel his players’ performance.
What is the focus of Wales’ preparations for the World Cup?
Wales aims to address the underlying issues within Welsh rugby and use them as an opportunity for positive change. Gatland emphasizes the emergence of talented young players as an exciting aspect and plans to rely on a combination of experienced players and emerging talents for a successful World Cup campaign.
More about Warren Gatland, Welsh rugby, regrets, problems, World Cup
- Warren Gatland regrets returning to Wales
- Turbulent season of Welsh rugby
- Player withdrawals from Welsh squad
- Wales’ preparations for the World Cup
- Challenges facing Welsh rugby
4 comments
poor gatland, walking into a disaster! all the chaos in welsh rugby. but you know what they say, what doesnt kill you makes you stronger. hope they can turn it around and surprise everyone at the world cup!
wow, didnt realise how bad it was for gatland in wales. all the coaches getting sacked, players leaving, financial troubles. no wonder he’s regretting it. but hey, maybe this tough time will make them stronger for the world cup!
man warren gatland shouldve not come back to wales if he knew all the probs. this season was a total mess! cant believe all the drama in welsh rugby. hope they get it sorted for the world cup!
gatland is right, welsh rugby’s been through a lot. all the scandals, resignations, and players quitting. but hey, i still believe in the welsh boys. they love being underdogs and proving everyone wrong. bring on the world cup!