In the wake of Wales’s devastating 45-12 loss to South Africa in Cardiff, head coach Warren Gatland has expressed his desire to remain at the helm of the Welsh national rugby team. Despite enduring a disastrous year in which his side lost all 11 Tests they played, extending their record winless run to 12 games, Gatland remains defiant in the face of mounting pressure.
Wales now holds the dubious distinction of being only the second tier one nation, after Italy four years ago, to lose all their Tests in a single calendar year during the professional era. The team’s abysmal performance has led to widespread criticism and calls for change, but Gatland insists he will not resign.
Gatland Holds Out Hope for Six Nations
Speaking to reporters after the match, Gatland acknowledged the challenges he and his team have faced in recent weeks, admitting that the negativity has taken its toll. However, he remains optimistic about the future, particularly with the 2025 Six Nations championship on the horizon.
“We’ll just wait and see what happens in the next couple of days,” Gatland said. “The last couple of weeks have been challenging and you’re only human. The negativity affects you.”
– Warren Gatland, Wales Head Coach
Despite the team’s struggles, Gatland believes in the potential of his squad, stating, “We’ve got a good group of men working hard, it feels like we’re only going to get better. I feel like I’m in a no-win situation when I answer these questions. I do definitely want to be here and it’s [about] letting the dust settle.”
Rebuilding After World Cup Losses
Gatland, who returned to coach Wales for a second stint following the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, has been tasked with rebuilding the squad after the loss of several key players. He acknowledges that this process will take time and patience, a sentiment echoed by those close to the team.
“That’s been a real challenge for us. It takes time and it’s hard to replace overnight,” a source within the Welsh Rugby Union revealed.
– Welsh Rugby Union source
Lessons Learned from South Africa Defeat
While disappointed with the result against South Africa, Gatland believes his players can learn valuable lessons from the experience. He praised their effort and dedication, urging fans to remain proud of the team’s commitment despite the scoreline.
“I’m not content with the result but I can’t question how hard the players tried,” Gatland said. “What they learned tonight is little things that quality sides take advantage of. We got caught a couple of times. Hopefully they’ll be better for that.”
– Warren Gatland, Wales Head Coach
Uncertainty Surrounds Gatland’s Future
As the dust settles on another disappointing result, uncertainty looms over Gatland’s future as Wales head coach. The coming days will likely see discussions between Gatland and Welsh Rugby Union officials, as they determine the best course of action for the team moving forward.
For now, Gatland remains focused on the task at hand, determined to lead Wales out of their current slump and restore pride in the national team. With the Six Nations just months away, the pressure is on for the veteran coach to turn things around and prove that he is still the right man for the job.
As the rugby world watches on, only time will tell if Warren Gatland can navigate the stormy waters ahead and steer Wales back to the top of the international game. The journey may be arduous, but for a coach of Gatland’s caliber, no challenge is too great to overcome.
