Big gain for Ireland as England coach switches sides

The RFU has confirmed that England Rugby men’s head of strength and conditioning Aled Walters will leave his role prior to the forthcoming Autumn Nations Series. He will instead link up with the Ireland national team, as confirmed by the Irish Rugby Football Union this afternoon.

England boss Steve Borthwick had the following to say about the man who arrived just last year from Leicester:

“We’d like to thank Aled for his contribution to England Rugby. Aled is an excellent coach and has worked hard to help develop the current squad over the past 12 months. He leaves with our very best wishes for the future.”

Walters added: “I’ve made some great memories coaching England, and I want to thank Steve, the management team and the players for their friendship and support. I wish the squad every success for the future.”

Stunner: Aled Walters leaves England for Ireland. Joins as head of athletic performance.

Andy Farrell: “He has a wealth of experience and has been a key part of many successful environments over the course of his career to date.”

— Ben Coles (@bencoles_) August 8, 2024

Walters won’t be out of action for long, with Ireland head coach Andy Farrell confirming his expected arrival as head of athletic performance.

“We are delighted that Aled has agreed to join the Ireland team. He has a wealth of experience and has been a key part of many successful environments over the course of his career to date,

“I know how excited he is to return to Ireland and hit the ground running and I’m confident that he’ll play an important role in the squad as we embark on a busy international season, starting with the Autumn Nations Series this November. Aled replaces Jason Cowman who departed after the Guinness Six Nations success in March. Jason contributed a huge amount to Irish rugby over 15 years and we thank him for his incredible service over that time.”

Speaking ahead of his new role with Ireland, Walters said: “I am delighted to join the Ireland national team and am excited about the opportunity to work with such a talented group of coaches and players. The Ireland team has gone from strength to strength in recent years and it’s an exciting time to rejoin Irish rugby as the team looks to achieve more success in the years to come.”