Today rugby news as new appointment 'massive' for Wales and All Blacks' post reignites Sexton feud

Wales stun world rugby with Pivac news

Wales have dramatically revealed that they are parting company with head coach Wayne Pivac after just 30 months in charge, confirming a deal to release him from the final year of his contract. Pivac signed a four-year deal when he was appointed in 2019 following Warren Gatland's departure, after the New Zealander guided his country to a World Cup semi-final and three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2019.

But the former Scarlets boss departs after failing to win any silverware and overseeing Wales’ record defeat to New Zealand last autumn and a first home loss to Italy in the Six Nations era in March. Despite being contracted until 2023, the humiliating defeats have forced the Welsh Rugby Union to act, with caretaker coach Stephen Jones taking over ahead of Wales’ summer tour to South Africa.

Foster's future in doubt as ex-All Black makes shock return

New Zealand Rugby have appointed former All Blacks hooker Jason Ryan as forwards coach through to the 2023 World Cup, in a potential sign that Ian Foster’s position is under threat. The shock move comes with the All Blacks having won just two of their last five matches, including a home defeat by Ireland.

Foster guided New Zealand to victory over South Africa in the Rugby Championship last year and a 2-1 series win over Ireland in July, but their form has dipped alarmingly in 2022. Ryan, who played 46 Tests for the All Blacks between 1998 and 2002, was previously forwards coach under Steve Hansen from 2012 to 2019.

Sexton feud reignites as ex-Ireland coach takes aim at captain

Former Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan has reignited his feud with Ireland captain Johnny Sexton by criticising his leadership following their defeat by New Zealand last weekend, O’Sullivan claimed Sexton had “lost the plot” and “cost Ireland a shot at victory”.

While Ireland were eventually beaten 42-19 by the All Blacks, they were in the contest at 19-19 midway through the second half before Sexton was sin-binned for a high tackle on Beauden Barrett. O'Sullivan, who coached Ireland from 2001 to 2008, is a long-time critic of Sexton.