Shaun Edwards to exit Wales coaching role at end of 2019 World Cup

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has confirmed that assistant coach Shaun Edwards will leave his role with the national team at the end of the 2019 World Cup to take in charge of rugby league club Wigan Warriors.

The 51-year-old has been associated with WRU since 2008 when he took over as defence coach and since then has helped Wales to two Grand Slams and a Six Nations title.

Edwards was named the International coach of the year in 2008 and was also the defence coach for the British and Irish Lions during their 2009 tour of South Africa.

WRU chairman Gareth Davies lavished praise on Edwards and thanked him for his contribution to Wales.

"We would like to congratulate Shaun on his appointment at Wigan Warriors.

"He is a rugby league legend and particularly so at Wigan and we know he will be welcomed back there with open arms.

"Shaun has and continues to be a great servant to Welsh Rugby. He has been part of a hugely successful coaching team over the past ten years and we would like to thank him for all of his efforts.

"From a Wales perspective entering a crucial Rugby World Cup year it is great that Shaun has committed to seeing out his contract with the WRU and to continue to help lead Wales into the RWC.

"He will take up the role at Wigan post Japan 2019 and I am sure I speak on behalf of the whole game in Wales when I say I wish him all the best for his future."