Shaun Edwards, the mastermind behind France’s rock-solid defence, has dropped a tantalising hint that he could be open to a return to either England or Wales as a potential head coach.
With the Welsh Rugby Union still on the lookout for a new boss after Warren Gatland’s departure during their underwhelming Six Nations campaign, the door is wide open for Edwards to make a dramatic comeback.
Having previously held talks with England in 2022 before opting to stay on with France, the 58-year-old is now being linked with the role of replacing Steve Borthwick after the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Edwards, who served as Wales’ defence coach from 2008 to 2019, was quizzed about the prospect of returning to Wales in an interview with the Daily Mail. His response was nothing short of intriguing for fans across both England and Wales.
“Any role interests me in the future, because I want to coach for as long as possible, particularly in international rugby,” Edwards said.
He continued, “I’ve proved myself as a head coach, with a team (Wasps) that won the Heineken Cup, the Premiership, and the Anglo-Welsh Cup. I know that, with my experience and the knowledge I’ve gained from working with people like Fabien Galthié and Gats, I’d be more than capable.”
Edwards exuded confidence when asked about stepping into a head coach role again, but he remained open-minded, adding, “It doesn’t bother me. As long as I’m in a job where I’m motivated, have good players to work with, who are highly motivated themselves, I can do both – assistant coach or head coach.”
In a previous interview he doubled down on his desire to coach England or Wales in the future. He wrote: “I will always keep an open mind about coaching England, or maybe returning to Wales, but now my sole focus is on France.
“My French language skills aren’t good enough to be a head coach, so for now I’ll be continuing as defence coach.
“At some point in future I’d like to make that step up to head coach at international level. I’m 56 years old and I’d like to coach into my 70s, like Wayne Bennett is doing in rugby league in Brisbane. I’ve still got plenty of time!”
Men’s 2027 Rugby World Cup draw: England get easy group, Boks get Scotland
The 2027 Rugby World Cup, set to take place in Australia from 1 October to 13 November, will be the largest edition ever with 24 teams — a bold expansion by World Rugby to supercharge inclusivity, competitiveness, and global reach.
Thanks to sweeping reforms approved in 2022, the tournament will feature six pools of four teams, followed by a Round of 16, streamlining the knockout stages while maintaining player rest.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for RWC 2027:
🏆 Group A
New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.
Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.
Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.
Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.
🌍 Group B
South Africa 🇿🇦
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.
Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.
Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.
Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.
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