**Welsh Rugby Faces Big Decisions as WRU Eyes New Coaching Candidates and Call for Structural Reform Grows**
Tonight’s rugby round-up brings a host of significant developments both within Wales and on the global stage, as the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) continues its search for stability and growth amid ongoing challenges. The nation’s rugby landscape remains in a state of flux, with critical voices urging fundamental change and key personnel decisions looming as the summer progresses.
Rumours have intensified surrounding Adam Jones, the famed former Welsh prop, who is reportedly high on the WRU’s shortlist for a permanent coaching role. Jones, who assisted Wales as part of the recent Six Nations campaign on loan from Harlequins, is once again involved with the national set-up for the coming summer tour of Japan. Although his return has initially been on an interim basis, there is significant speculation—reported by RugbyPass— that Jones may soon transition into a full-time post alongside established figures like Danny Wilson and Steve Tandy.
These inside sources indicate that Harlequins, mindful of the prospect of losing Jones, are already exploring options for a replacement scrum coach. Northampton Saints’ Matt Ferguson, soon to depart his current club, is thought to be in contention to step in at Harlequins should Jones commit to the Welsh cause on a more permanent footing. The WRU’s selection process continues as the clock ticks down to the Japan tour, with several senior coaches, including Wilson, T Rhys Thomas, and Gethin Jenkins, confirmed to join Jones and new head coach Neil Sherratt in the Far East. Rumours also persist of Leigh Halfpenny’s involvement in a new capacity this summer, keeping fans eager for further official announcements.
Amid these coaching machinations, the focus is not solely on personnel. Paul Thorburn, the former Wales captain, has issued a stark warning about the state of Welsh rugby. Speaking candidly on BBC Radio Wales, Thorburn called for comprehensive restructuring, arguing that the clubs’ divided approach is unsustainable. The rift between Ospreys and Scarlets and the WRU has become public, with both regions openly challenging the terms of the Professional Rugby Agreement. Thorburn asserted that, for Welsh rugby to thrive again, the governing body must seize direct control over the professional regions, suggesting a model similar to other national unions where central contracts and strategic oversight have proven effective.
He stressed that without such radical change, repeated disputes and funding uncertainties could continue to plague the game for another decade. “I believe the governing body itself also needs to reassess its management of the professional game,” Thorburn stated. Controversially, he also suggested that reducing the number of regions should be considered if it would safeguard the future of the national side and strengthen pathways for emerging talent. With participation numbers dwindling in the community game, Thorburn urged decision-makers to unite around a shared vision to protect rugby at all levels in Wales.
Elsewhere, changes on the player front have also hit the headlines as Cardiff Rugby’s Gabriel Hamer-Webb has confirmed his departure. Initially joining Cardiff from Bath on a short-term deal, the 24-year-old winger enjoyed a standout end to the season, prompting speculation of national selection for the upcoming Japan tour. Although he missed out on the squad—uncapped Ospreys flier Keelan Giles getting the nod instead—Hamer-Webb expressed his gratitude to teammates and supporters via social media, hinting at a possible move to Leicester Tigers for the next stage of his career.
On the international club stage, significant news came from European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), which has announced the inauguration of the World Club Cup, set to commence in 2028. The competition, backed unanimously by all relevant governing bodies, will see sixteen elite teams from Europe, Australasia, and Japan face off every four years. Qualification will hinge on success in respective top club competitions such as the Investec Champions Cup and Super Rugby Pacific.
EPCR chairman Dominic McKay hailed the development as the culmination of years of planning and an important moment for the global game. The proposal aims to “supercharge” both the traditional Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup by adding a new international dimension. McKay indicated that more detailed plans for the revamped club calendar, along with further innovations, would be revealed in the coming months.
These sweeping changes—both at home and abroad—signal a period of considerable transition for rugby union, with governing bodies, clubs, and individuals grappling with the demands of the modern era. As Wales ponders coaching appointments and long-term strategic direction, and as the world watches the birth of an ambitious global club tournament, the rugby community is poised for conversations and controversies which will shape its future for years to come.
Supporters across Wales and beyond will be watching developments with keen interest, hoping that bold decisions made now will restore fortunes and foster renewed unity from grassroots to elite level.