IRFU sack Kidney: Kiss to take temporary charge

The IRFU have sacked Ireland coach Declan Kidney.

They announced that they will not be offering the Cork man a new contract after his current agreement ends on June 30.

Kidney’s future has been the subject of much speculation after he presided over a forgettable RBS 6 Nations campaign, with Ireland finishing above only France in the standings.

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

They thanked Kidney for his "unquestionable commitment, passion, professionalism and success he has delivered to Irish Rugby to date".

June's tour of North America, where Ireland will play the USA and Canada will now be led by interim Head Coach Les Kiss who will be assisted by Gert Smal and Anthony Foley.

Philip Browne, IRFU CEO, said: "We would like to sincerely thank Declan for his commitment to Irish Rugby. His contribution and involvement across the spectrum of Irish rugby delivered Under Age, Provincial, Grand Slam and Triple Crown success, and epitomises his passion, belief and commitment to the game.

"With a host of new and emerging talent at every level, and despite the clear challenges ahead, we are confident of securing another world-class coach to work with this talented and ambitious group of players."

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.

However, their setback in Italy dropped them to their lowest ever world ranking of ninth and led to many calling for Kidney to resign.