I OAN CUNNINGHAM

In three words

Unassuming. Driven. Collaborative.

Playing CV

A No 8 hailing from the Amman Valley, he played more than 100 games for Llanelli, leading them to a Welsh Cup final victory in 2005. He captained Wales U18 and U19 but found opportunities restricted at pro region level.

Coaching background

He cut his teeth with Llanelli’s club side and the region’s academy. Appointed Scarlets’ forwards coach in 2017, he helped provide the platform for the franchise’s thrilling Pro12 title triumph. Cunningham, 39, was surprisingly let go by Scarlets in 2020 and became director of elite rugby at Llandovery College. Having been involved with the national U20 side, he was named Wales Women head coach in October 2021.

What he’s known for

Cunningham has learnt to “build on strengths rather than deflate tyres” – just what is needed after problems arose under previous regimes. A roll-your-sleeves-up type of coach, he’s borrowing from the Warren Gatland manual of hard work to develop resilience.

Who’s on his team

After Geraint Lewis left last term, Mike Hill arrived from Bath’s academy to become forwards coach. Richard Whiffin handles the backs/attack, while Stephen Myler (kicking), former Wales RL forward Ben Flower (contact) and former sevens international Ben Thomas (skills) are among recent additions.

Biggest achievement

It’s hard to top that Pro12 title at Scarlets, where he adapted well to coaching a swathe of senior internationals. It’s early days in his new job but already he has selected the first full-time women players – a landmark moment.