Wales turn to Gatland

Updated 12.30 Fri Nov 09 2007

Keywords: Warren Gatland, Six Nations Championship, sport, Wales, rugby

Wales have turned to Warren Gatland as successor to Gareth Jenkins as their new head coach.

Gatland, who has been Waikato coach for the last two-and-a-half years, is set to leave New Zealand to take up his new role from December 1.

"I've been given the opportunity to coach at the highest level" - Warren Gatland

The 44-year-old former All Blacks star has been quoted as saying: "I've been given the opportunity to coach at the highest level.

"While it was a hard decision to make to leave Waikato it is the ultimate dream for me to coach at this level again. I want to thank Waikato for the support they have given me during this time of transition."

Gatland has coached in the Six Nations Championship before - he was in charge of the Ireland side for three years before being replaced by current incumbent Eddie O'Sullivan.

He also revived Wasps' fortunes, leading the London side to a hat-trick of Guinness Premiership titles as well as to the European Cup in 2004.