• Warren Gatland will step down as Wales head coach amidst a record 14 consecutive losses.
• The Welsh team reached a low of 12th in the world rankings under his recent leadership.
• Gatland has faced significant challenges during his second tenure, including player retirements and financial disputes.
• He previously enjoyed immense success in his first coaching spell, achieving multiple Grand Slams.
• Michael Cheika and Simon Easterby are among the potential successors being considered.

Warren Gatland, the head coach of Wales, is poised to leave his position following a tumultuous spell that saw the team suffer an unprecedented record of 14 successive Test match defeats. After the latest setback, a 22-15 loss to Italy during the ongoing Six Nations, news of Gatland's departure surfaced from various sources, including Channel News Asia and BBC. The 61-year-old New Zealander originally returned to lead Wales in December 2022, but his tenure has been marred by disappointing results. Wales' ranking plummeted to a record low of 12th globally during this period, with Gatland managing only six wins out of 26 matches, a mere 23% win rate. This betrayal of expectations comes in stark contrast to his prolific first spell which included three Grand Slam titles and prominent placements in World Cups. “You do question yourself,” admitted Gatland after criticising the current state of affairs, expressing the difficulties of turning around the team's fortunes given the mounting pressure and frustrations faced by the players, according to BBC. As the Welsh Rugby Union sought to manage the fallout, there have been calls for interim leadership. Cardiff's Matt Sherratt has reportedly emerged as a candidate for this caretaker role, while several other potential successors, including Michael Cheika and Franco Smith, have also been linked to the job, as highlighted by Reuters. Gatland's return to the role in 2022 was shrouded in optimism following a previous illustrious term, yet he has faced obstacles that included player retirements, contract disputes, and a visible decline in performance. His first stint was marked by victory and success; however, his second has been characterized as the worst period in Welsh rugby history, amplifying calls for a change. Although Gatland stated he might not have returned had he known the full extent of the problems, his legacy remains complicated, exemplifying profound shifts in player dynamics and performance standards. His words, where he remarked on the potential need for fresh approaches within Welsh rugby, resonate deeply amid the current structural challenges facing the sport in Wales. As Wales prepares for new contests against Ireland and Scotland, the pressing need for a revitalized coaching direction is undeniable as Gatland attends what is expected to be his final press conference, a moment poised in reflection and controversy. For ongoing updates, refer to the official sources from Channel News Asia, and BBC.