Gatland says comments not critical of Welsh coaches

Warren Gatland is in his second stint as Wales head coach

Wales head coach Warren Gatland says comments he made last week about regional rugby were not critical of Welsh coaches.

Gatland said Welsh regional rugby feels like a “sinking ship” and that he was not 100% convinced a much-needed reset will happen.

He also highlighted the need to invest in facilities and backroom staff before thinking about recruiting players.

The comments have resulted in a range of responses from the Welsh regions.

Gatland has aimed to clarify his previous statement that was made before Wales’ 31-7 Six Nations defeat against Ireland, a 10th Six Nations loss in 11 games.

“I was asked the question about where Irish rugby was at, and where we were at – the structure and systems,” said Gatland.

“You can take anything out of a few quotes and want to put a story on anything.

“What I was highlighting was the importance of us, for the next 10 years if we want success and sustainability, having the best facilities and support staff, whether that’s coaches, medical staff, strength and conditioning.

“Before we start thinking about anything else, that’s probably where the difference was at the moment.

“That’s what I highlighted and I’ve continued to talk about how important those things are.

“Probably the difference between us and Ireland at the moment is they’ve got their systems and structures in place and we’ve got a little bit of a way to go.

“It wasn’t a criticism of coaches. I know how hard they’re working in terms of the regions and how hard they’re trying.

“It wasn’t a criticism of them, it’s about all of us working together to keep improving the things we’ve got here.

“Probably all of the regions, if they look at their structure and support staff, they’ve probably got a couple of holes and things they’re working to hopefully put right for the future.”

The Welsh regions have a battle to improve things off the field with playing budgets cut to £4.5m from £5.2m for the 2024-25 season.

“The numbers have come down to but previously we were spending up to £8m on players’ salaries and we still had some of the same issues on infrastructure,” said Gatland.

“All I’m saying is the most important thing and we cannot neglect getting that support and structure right in the game because it’s the long-term impact it’s going to have.”

The Welsh sides have been able to blood young players with Cardiff trio Mackenzie Martin, Cameron Winnett and Alex Mann handed first caps by Gatland.

Cameron Winnett made his Wales debut against Scotland in the opening game of the 2024 Six Nations

“That’s been huge for us because we’ve seen some of those players exposed that are now part of our squad,” said Gatland.

“You could argue maybe a few years ago we wouldn’t have seen a Cam Winnett anywhere near the Cardiff team because of a lot more overseas players or experienced players.

“We’ve seen some of these younger players get opportunities, Alex Mann as well has been exposed at a younger age, we’ve got a lot of time for that young Ryan Woodman at the Dragons as well.

“We think he is going to be special. There are a huge number of positives about what’s happening.

“We’ve got this chance to reset things and there’s a chance to make sure we do it properly, make sure we don’t go back to doing some of the things that we have been doing in the past.”

Gatland says he is glad his comments have created a debate.

“The pleasing thing for me is that it’s raised discussion,” said Gatland.

“At least people are talking about it. My concern was if we don’t talk about it and focus on these areas, we’ll carry on doing what we’ve been doing for years and having the same results.

“If we don’t get that right, we’re potentially going to keep on doing the same things. I’ll keep reiterating, it’s the most important thing.

“It’s something we need to get right before we think about contracting players. That’s what I meant about feeling like plugging holes.

“You’re being reactive and trying to fix things on the run. If they’ve got plans in place for the future in terms of infrastructure and facilities, that would be fantastic. It’s important for the game.

“I keep saying that the impact of the right environment, people facilities will have so much more of an impact for us long-term than one or two players will do in a squad.

“We’ve just got to make sure we keep focusing on that.”

Gatland says he has wondered whether he should be forthright in his future answers.

“The hardest thing about this you can take out bits and pieces and create controversy, debate or negativity about some of the comments I made,” said Gatland.

“That can be disappointing, because you see that side and question whether I’m better off saying nothing to attract controversy or negative publicity. That’s frustrating.

“I’ve always tried to be honest. I’ve always tried to give an honest answer or an opinion. It doesn’t always mean I’m right. I’m comfortable with people disagreeing with me.”