In a bold move that signals their intent, Wales have secured Matt Sherratt as a permanent fixture in their coaching ranks, under the leadership of the recently appointed head coach, Steve Tandy. Sherratt, who departs his role at Cardiff with immediate effect, is set to invigorate the Welsh attack, jumping onboard just in time for the high-stakes autumn internationals at the Principality Stadium.
Having previously assumed the role of head coach at Cardiff and led Wales on an interim basis for several critical matches in 2025, Sherratt's track record speaks volumes. He stepped in to steer the national team through tough matches in the Six Nations against rugby heavyweights Ireland, Scotland, and England, and returned to guide Wales to notable victories over Japan during the summer Tests.
Sherratt's history with Welsh rugby is rich, having been an assistant coach during the 2016 year-end matches, and the mid-year Tests against Samoa and Tonga in 2017. His coaching journey also includes stints with Ospreys, Worcester, and a successful period at Bristol before his tenure at Cardiff began in 2016. His impact was immediate, helping Cardiff claim the European Challenge Cup in 2018.
"It’s great to welcome Matt to the coaching team. He obviously has experience from leading the squad on an interim basis for five games earlier this year and did a great job to get that result in Japan on a short turnaround after a long season,"
Tandy remarked."Matt is an excellent coach. His philosophy and approach is a great fit our playing group and I’m excited for us to start working together."
Reflecting on his new role, Sherratt expressed both excitement and the weight of his decision.
"This was obviously a difficult decision to make as Cardiff is genuinely a club that means a huge amount to me and my family, and it’s also one that’s heading in the right direction. However, opportunities in the international game do not come around often and the chance to test myself at the highest level, while returning to a more hands on role, is something I could not turn down. I’m excited to team up with Steve and Danny for Wales and am looking forward to getting started on preparations for the autumn,"
he stated.The WRU director of rugby and elite performance, Dave Reddin, also weighed in, highlighting the strategic fit of Sherratt within the team dynamics. "Matt is another great addition to the Wales coaching team. Between Steve, Matt and Danny we have the right balance of complementary sets of skills and I’m looking forward to seeing them working together to develop this exciting young group of players we have," said Reddin.
As the Wales squad gears up for the upcoming matches against Argentina, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa this November, the addition of Sherratt is expected to bring a fresh tactical edge to the team, potentially heralding a new era for Welsh rugby.