Sherratt to leave Cardiff Rugby to become WRU coach
The 47-year-old led Wales on an interim basis for three games of this year's Six Nations following the departure of Warren Gatland.
Matt Sherratt has left his role as Cardiff head coach just days before the new United Rugby Championship season to become Wales' attack coach.
The 47-year-old led Wales on an interim basis for three games of this year's Six Nations following the departure of Warren Gatland.
He then oversaw a two-match summer tour of Japan, which concluded with Wales ending their record run of 18 consecutive Test defeats.
Wales, who appointed Steve Tandy as Gatland's permanent successor in July, are preparing for autumn fixtures at home to Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and world champions South Africa.
In a statement released by the Welsh Rugby Union, Tandy said: "Matt is an excellent coach. I think his philosophy and approach is a great fit for our playing group and I'm excited for us to start working together."
Speaking in a statement for Cardiff Rugby, Sherratt said: “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 am enormously grateful to everyone at the club from players and coaches to the staff, supporters and sponsors, for making my time at the Arms Park so enjoyable.
“The timing is not ideal, however I am confident that the club is in good hands with some excellent coaches and staff behind the scenes.
“I wish everyone at Cardiff the very best for the season ahead and look forward to seeing you all at the Arms Park soon.”
Jamie Muir, Cardiff Rugby interim Managing Director, said: “Everyone at Cardiff would like to thank Matt for his contributions at the Arms Park and we all wish him and his family the very best for the future.
“The fact that he has been approached by Wales is testament to the progress we have made as a club with him at the helm as head coach.
“We are confident with the staff that remain in place and are fully focussed on kicking off the new season on Saturday night in positive fashion.”
Cardiff’s remaining coach staff, Corniel van Zyl (forwards), Gethin Jenkins (defence) Jonny Goodridge (skills) and Scott Andrews (scrum), will continue to lead the Blue & Blacks, as they have previously in Sherratt’s absence.
The club says they have begun a review process, with a short-term plan to be confirmed imminently while steps are taken to implement a longer-term plan.