Matt Sherratt Leaves Cardiff to Become Wales Attack Coach

In a move that has been brewing since the summer, Matt Sherratt has confirmed that he is leaving Cardiff to take up the full-time role of Wales attack coach under newly appointed head coach Steve Tandy. It’s a significant step in Sherratt’s career and a bold statement from Wales, who are clearly keen to build on the momentum of their summer revival.

Sherratt’s Journey from Caretaker to Key Wales Figure

Sherratt is no stranger to the Welsh national setup. Earlier this year, the 47-year-old stepped in as caretaker head coach for three Six Nations games after Warren Gatland’s departure, tasked with steadying a ship that had endured months of turbulence.

Though results did not immediately swing Wales’ way, Sherratt was widely praised for restoring belief and implementing a more expansive, attacking style that seemed to click with the players. His interim spell extended into the summer tour of Japan – where he helped Wales finally break a record run of 18 consecutive Test defeats.

That result alone seemed to cement his reputation as a coach who can deliver under pressure. So when Steve Tandy took over as permanent head coach on 1 September, adding Sherratt to his backroom staff was a natural decision.

Leaving Cardiff: A Difficult Decision

For Cardiff fans, Sherratt’s departure just days before the start of the United Rugby Championship (URC) season is bittersweet.

“The timing is not ideal, however, I am confident that the club is in good hands with some excellent coaches and staff behind the scenes,” Sherratt admitted when the news was announced.

He didn’t hide the emotional pull of leaving Arms Park, a club he has twice served and helped guide to a URC play-off berth in 2023-24 despite significant financial constraints.

“This was obviously a difficult decision to make as Cardiff is genuinely a club that means a huge amount to me and my family, and it’s also one that’s heading in the right direction,” he said.

But international opportunities rarely come around, and the lure of returning to a more hands-on coaching role at the very top level was too strong to resist.

Cardiff Move Forward with Interim Setup

Matt Sherratt leaves Cardiff for Wales on eve of season in major announcement

Cardiff will now enter the season opener against the Lions with assistants Corniel van Zyl, Jonny Goodridge, Scott Andrews, and Gethin Jenkins sharing leadership duties while the club begins its search for a long-term replacement.

Interim managing director Jamie Muir struck an optimistic tone despite the late disruption.

“The fact Matt has been approached by Wales is testament to the progress we have made as a club,” Muir said. “We are confident with the staff that remain in place and are fully focused on kicking off the new season on Saturday night in positive fashion.”

For the club’s supporters, there’s pride in seeing one of their own recognised at international level, even if it leaves a short-term gap to fill.

Tandy’s Growing Coaching Team

New Wales boss Steve Tandy is clearly assembling a strong backroom staff as he seeks to lead the team into a new era. In addition to Sherratt, Tandy has added Danny Wilson to take charge of the line-out and contact areas – a move that has been well received by players and pundits alike.

Tandy was quick to praise Sherratt’s impact on the team during the summer tour.

“Matt did a great job to get that result in Japan on a short turnaround after a long season,” Tandy said. “He is an excellent coach. His philosophy and approach is a great fit for our playing group.”

A Coach with Deep Welsh Rugby Ties

Although born in Gloucester, Sherratt has become something of an adopted Welshman through his coaching career. His path has taken him from early roles at Gloucester and Cheltenham, through a four-year spell at Worcester Warriors’ academy, before honing his craft as an attack specialist at Bristol, Ospreys, and Cardiff.

His second stint at Cardiff, beginning in 2021, saw him become one of the most popular figures at the Arms Park. He implemented a style of rugby that aligned with the club’s traditions – high-tempo, attack-minded, and brave – while also steering the team through turbulent financial waters.

“I am proud that we have been able to put the club back on solid foundations, have implemented a playing style that resonates with the history and city, and enjoyed so many memorable moments at the Arms Park,” Sherratt reflected.

Looking Ahead: Autumn Tests and Beyond

Wales will next be in action for their autumn international series, facing Argentina, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa in a blockbuster November schedule. Sherratt’s role will be crucial as the side looks to sharpen its attacking edge against some of the best defences in world rugby.

There’s no denying that this is a pivotal moment for Welsh rugby. With Tandy at the helm, Wilson reinforcing the forwards, and Sherratt shaping the backline, there’s a sense of optimism building. If the new coaching trio can replicate the energy and clarity that brought success in Japan, Wales could be poised to leave the misery of their record losing streak firmly in the rear-view mirror.

For Cardiff, meanwhile, the challenge will be to build on the foundations Sherratt leaves behind – something the remaining staff seem determined to do.

As for Sherratt himself, the chance to shape Wales’ attack on a permanent basis feels like the culmination of years of hard work. It’s a gamble to step away from a club project he helped stabilise, but one that could pay off handsomely if Wales’ attack flourishes under his watch.