IRFU look to life after Kidney

The IRFU were today beginning their search for a head coach after deciding to part company with Declan Kidney.

The former Munster man’s contract was due to expire in the summer and the Irish Rugby Football Union announced yesterday that they would not be renewing his deal and that he would be leaving the post with immediate effect.

Kidney’s future had been the subject of much speculation after a poor RBS 6 Nations campaign produced shock defeats to Scotland and Italy, resulting in a fifth-placed finish and Ireland’s lowest ever world ranking of ninth.

The loss in Italy on the final weekend of the campaign led many to call for Kidney’s resignation, so yesterday’s announcement came as no surprise.

“The Irish Rugby Football Union today announced that it will not be offering a new contract to Declan Kidney after his current agreement ends (on 30 June next), with Declan’s role as Ireland’s senior men’s coach ceasing today,” said a statement on the IRFU official website.

“The decision was made following an in-depth review process carried out by the IRFU’s National Team Review Group (NTRG).

“The IRFU thank Declan Kidney for the unquestionable commitment, passion, professionalism and success he has delivered to Irish Rugby to date.

“The IRFU, through the NTRG, will continue the process of identifying suitable candidates for the Ireland coaching role.”

Les Kiss has been confirmed as the interim head coach for Ireland’s summer tour of north America, with Gert Smal and Anthony Foley acting as his assistants.

Ireland will be hoping they can show a marked improvement against the United States in Houston on June 8 and then Canada in Toronto a week later following their dismal showing in the Six Nations.

They began their campaign with an impressive defeat of eventual tournament winners Wales at the Millennium Stadium, but that proved to be the highlight for Kidney’s men.

Back-to-back defeats against England and Scotland was followed by a draw against France before another surprise loss in Italy on the final weekend.

There were some extenuating circumstances during the championship, with Ireland dealing with a debilitating injury list which robbed them of key players such as Paul O’Connell, Jonathan Sexton and Simon Zebo.

Kidney replaced the outgoing Eddie O’Sullivan as Ireland coach in 2008 and his crowning glory was undoubtedly leading them to the Six Nations Grand Slam a year later.

They were beaten in the World Cup quarter-final in 2011 by Wales, while they suffered a record 60-0 defeat against world champions New Zealand last year.