Rowland quits Welsh for WRU

LONDON Welsh’s British & Irish Cup-winning head coach Rowland Phillips is leaving the club to become head coach to Wales Women.

Phillips said: “London Welsh is a truly unique club and I’ve had the privilege to be part of its family, both as a player and a coach.

“Last season was a challenging one at times but a thoroughly enjoyable one as well.

“I believe the momentum we created at the end of last season can be carried forwards, and built upon to ensure that London Welsh is challenging for further success.”

London Welsh director of rugby Steve Lewis, said: “Rowland has been a pleasure to work with. Throughout the tough times he has remained positive and upbeat and the progress that the team made after Christmas is in no small means down to his belief in the side and his unique personality.”

James Buckland will take over as head coach with immediate effect.

Buckland made eight appearances for the club on loan from London Irish and spent some time on the coaching staff under Lyn Jones in 2012-13. He returned to the coaching staff last season when Phillips took over as head coach.

Buckland will be supported by Sonny Parker and Richard Tonkin.