Warren Gatland could be set for a surprising return to the international stage, with sources suggesting he may take up an advisory role with Hong Kong China Rugby as the team prepares for its historic debut at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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The New Zealander, who left his post as Wales head coach midway through the 2025 Six Nations following a run of poor results, has remained active in the game. Since his departure, Gatland has taken on a short-term consultancy role with Peñarol Rugby in Uruguay and has been linked with broadcast work for Sky Sports ahead of the next British & Irish Lions tour. Now, fresh reports claim he could lend his experience to Hong Kong China in a similar advisory capacity.
Hong Kong China’s Historic Qualification
Hong Kong China secured their place at the 2027 World Cup by winning the 2025 Asia Rugby Championship, defeating Korea 70–22 in the decisive fixture. It marks their first-ever qualification for the men’s tournament, achieved under the expanded 24-team format that guaranteed Asia one automatic spot (Asia 1).
The qualification has transformed Hong Kong’s rugby landscape. The union has moved quickly to assemble a squad of 34 players on full- or part-time contracts, transitioning toward a more professional program to ensure they are competitive in Australia in two years’ time.
Head coach Logan Asplin and Director of Rugby Andrew Douglas have been tasked with building a side capable of holding its own on the world stage.
Gatland’s Potential Role
If confirmed, Gatland’s involvement is expected to be strictly advisory, complementing Hong Kong China’s existing coaching structure rather than replacing it. With decades of international experience, including guiding Wales to multiple Grand Slams and leading the British & Irish Lions on three tours, his insight would be invaluable for a developing rugby nation navigating its first World Cup cycle.
The partnership, however, would not be without challenges. Gatland’s base outside Asia, coupled with other professional and media commitments, may limit how hands-on he can be. Nonetheless, even a part-time or remote consultancy could provide Hong Kong China with a significant boost in expertise and profile as they prepare for the global stage.
EDITORS PICKS:
Four Springboks and one England star in 2025 World XV
The British & Irish Lions may have returned from Australia with a 2–1 series victory, but selection into the current World XV has been far less generous.
Despite Maro Itoje leading the side to glory as captain, only four Lions make the cut—evidence that while the tour was successful on the scoreboard, it didn’t necessarily produce a team packed with the form players of world rugby.
South Africa and New Zealand dominate the line-up, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.
2025 World XV
1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)
The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)
Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.
3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)
Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.
4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)
A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.
5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)
Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.
6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)
A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)
Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.
8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)
A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.
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