**Jac Morgan Reveals Reactions from Scotland Players on Steve Tandy’s Move to Wales Head Coach**
Wales rugby captain Jac Morgan has opened up about conversations with his Scottish counterparts following the announcement that Steve Tandy will take on the role of Wales national team head coach. The move, unveiled by the Welsh Rugby Union on Monday, has sparked significant interest and emotion both within the Wales camp and among Tandy’s former colleagues in Scotland.
After months of speculation and a five-month selection process to replace Warren Gatland, Tandy – formerly Scotland’s defence coach – has been chosen to lead Wales as they look to reinvigorate their rugby fortunes. Tandy, 45, is set to begin his tenure in September, taking charge ahead of Wales’ autumn internationals, and becomes the first Welshman to lead the team since Gareth Jenkins.
Morgan, who captained his nation in both the recent Six Nations and last year’s World Cup in France, expressed relief that the uncertainty over leadership had finally been resolved. Speaking from the British & Irish Lions tour in Australia, he described the mood among his teammates. “It’s great to be able to have a head coach now so we can look to the future,” Morgan remarked. He highlighted the respect held for Tandy within the game, saying, “I’ve spoken to a lot of the boys and they’ve all said he’s a great coach but more than that he’s a good bloke as well.”
The appointment of Tandy has, however, come as a blow to Scotland, where he played a pivotal role in revamping their defence. According to Morgan, Scottish players on the Lions tour have been open about their sense of loss, with some expressing disappointment. “They’re all pretty gutted and said we’re lucky, so that speaks volumes in a way,” Morgan revealed. This insight underlines Tandy’s influence in transforming Scottish rugby and his high standing among the players he coached.
Steve Tandy’s coaching journey has seen him develop a diverse range of experience across different rugby environments. After leaving the Ospreys in 2018, he went on to coach with Australia’s Waratahs, before taking up his recent role with Scotland, as well as assisting with the British & Irish Lions. His return to Welsh rugby thus represents both a homecoming and an opportunity for the national side to benefit from his international exposure.
Former Wales wing and Ospreys stalwart Shane Williams welcomed the news, recalling his shared early playing days with Tandy at Neath. Speaking on Welsh television, Williams said: “I’m chuffed for him. He’s a really, really nice guy. Sometimes grumpy, but he’s worked really hard to be where he is now.” Williams offered further insight into Tandy’s coaching pedigree, referencing his time with Bridgend, the Ospreys, and the transformation he brought to Scotland’s defence.
Williams also acknowledged the scale of the task awaiting Tandy, suggesting that support will be essential as he steps into one of rugby’s most challenging national coaching roles. “He’s someone who always gives 100 percent to something. I hope he brings the confidence he has into the role as well. He’s got a lot of work to do.” Such remarks illustrate both confidence in Tandy’s abilities and recognition of the challenge he faces after a turbulent period for Welsh rugby.
The departure of Tandy from Scotland has evidently created a sense of loss for their current squad, which could have ramifications for their own preparations in the months ahead. Meanwhile, for Wales, Tandy’s appointment brings a renewed sense of direction and optimism as they prepare for a new chapter and look to recapture success on the international stage.
As Welsh rugby fans look ahead to the autumn internationals, all eyes will be on Tandy to see how his methods and leadership impact a side eager for revival. Both players and supporters will hope that his wealth of experience and positive reputation can help Wales navigate a competitive global rugby landscape and inspire a new era of achievement.