Wales defence coach leaves set-up ahead of Ireland clash

'On reflection of the last campaign it was mutually decided that the best way forward for Wales and for Byron is for him to step down from his role'

Wales boss Wayne Pivac needs a new defence coach. Picture: Adam Davy/PA

Wales defence coach Byron Hayward has left his role with immediate effect.

Hayward leaves his post just five days before Wales start their Autumn Nations campaign against Ireland in Dublin, with the Welsh Rugby Union saying the decision was made by “mutual agreement”.