Easterby tipped to succeed Schmidt

Wales hooker Ken Owens believes Simon Easterby has what it takes to succeed Joe Schmidt as Ireland coach.

Former Ireland and Lions flanker Easterby will leave his role with the Scarlets to replace John Plumtree as forwards’ coach in Schmidt’s coaching team.

Owens has played under the 39-year-old over the last two years at Parc-y-Scarlets, and believes it would be a natural progression for his former boss to end up in charge of the nation for whom he won 65 caps.

Owens said: “He definitely has what it takes to be an international head coach.

“He works so hard and he is a very thorough coach and I am sure he will do well. He knows what playing for Ireland is all about but he also has great technical knowledge.”