Shaun Edwards looks to bow out on a high with Wales
Shaun Edwards has hinted he will leave after the World Cup
If this is to be Shaun Edwards’ swansong at the Millennium Stadium, his finest hour with Wales will be a fitting epilogue.
Wales look set to part company with the architect of this remarkable victory after their defence coach gave the strongest hint yet that he will leave after the World Cup.
Edwards, along with most of Warren Gatland’s back-room staff, is out of contract later this year with a shake-up looking increasingly likely by the end of the year after eight hugely successful seasons together.
“It was a very emotional game, only a Six Nations game can bring the emotion out like that, particularly for myself,” said Edwards.
“With all our contracts being up after the world Cup, it could be my last Six Nations game with Wales at the Millennium Stadium. If it ends up being that way after the World Cup then it’s a great way to sign off.”
Since the anti-climax against England, Wales have steadily restored belief as they aim to emulate their success of reaching the semi-finals of the last World Cup. Ireland, after all, are third in the world.
“We’re a better team and in better shape than we were in 2011,” said Edwards. “We have more understanding, the players have played together longer and they are a bit more mature.
“We get more understanding when together for long periods but also fitter. That is a massive part of what we do. We’re a little bit lighter than other teams and we hardly kick the ball off the pitch so it’s not easy.”