“I’m delighted to join Felipe Contepomi, his coaching staff and the Argentina rugby team at the end of this month until the World Cup next year in Australia,” defence coach Shaun Edwards said after signing a deal with the Argentine Rugby Union through the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The announcement ends speculation that Steve Borthwick’s England set-up might hire the 59-year-old. Before starting with the Pumas, Edwards will finish his short-term consultancy role with England’s women’s team under John Mitchell, working through the conclusion of the WXV Global Series on October 30.
Contract Terms and Coaching Lineup for Argentina
Edwards signed a contract keeping him with Argentina until after the tournament in Australia concludes on November 13, 2027. He joins head coach Felipe Contepomi’s staff alongside former Pumas head coach Mario Ledesma, who returns to take charge of the forwards. Ledesma previously coached Argentina from 2018 to 2022, leading the side to their first-ever victory over New Zealand in 2020. Both Edwards and Ledesma will begin their duties at the end of October.
Upcoming Fixtures and World Cup Pool Draw
Argentina is scheduled to play Nations Championship matches in November against Ireland, Italy, and France. Looking further ahead to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, three-time semi-finalists Argentina have been drawn in a pool alongside Fiji, Spain, and Canada.
Background of International Success
Edwards arrives in Buenos Aires following a distinguished career across rugby league and union. He spent seven years as France’s defence coach, helping Les Bleus win three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2022, before making a surprise exit from the post earlier this year. Prior to his tenure in France, Edwards spent twelve years as defence coach for Wales under Warren Gatland, securing four Six Nations titles, and also worked with Wasps, where he won four English titles and two Champions Cups.
When does Shaun Edwards start working with Argentina?
Edwards begins his role with the Pumas at the end of October, following the conclusion of his short-term consultancy stint with England’s women’s team on October 30.
Who else joined the Argentina coaching staff alongside Edwards?
Former Argentina hooker and head coach Mario Ledesma was appointed as the team’s forwards coach alongside Edwards.
What are Argentina’s upcoming matches in 2024?
The Pumas are scheduled to face Ireland, Italy, and France in November during the Nations Championship matches.
Which teams are in Argentina’s pool for the 2027 Rugby World Cup?
Argentina has been drawn in a pool with Fiji, Spain, and Canada for the tournament taking place in Australia between October 1 and November 13, 2027.
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