Paul Stridgeon to exit Wales setup after eight year spell

Paul Stridgeon, Wales’ head of physical performance, is set to step down from his role as the 2023 Six Nations comes to a close.

After Wales’ defeat by France in Paris, team captain Ken Owens confirmed that a member of their management team was leaving.

Alex Bywater reports for the Sports Mail that Stridgeon – the former British & Irish Lions S&C guru – is the man that will leave his role, likely for a club role in the Top 14.

Stridgeon, who has previously worked with Toulon and England, played a crucial role in maintaining the team’s peak physical condition.

Paul ‘Bobby’ Stridgeon joined Wales ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup and has been an integral part of the Wales management team. He was part of the 2009, 2013 and 2017 British & Irish Lions.

Despite a disappointing performance in the Guinness Six Nations, head coach Warren Gatland and captain Owens are optimistic about Wales’ chances in the upcoming World Cup.

Wales suffered four defeats in five games during the tournament, finishing fifth with only Italy below them in the rankings. However, a tenacious second-half performance in their match against France resulted in a losing bonus-point, thanks to tries from Bradley Roberts, Tomos Williams, and Rio Dyer.

The defeat against France marked Wales’ 13th loss in their last 17 tests. As they prepare for the World Cup later this year, they face the daunting prospect of Australia and Fiji in their pool, with only two teams qualifying for the quarter-finals.

“There are players coming back from injury, and there will no doubt be some bolters who put up their hand with the way they potentially train in the camps, when there will be some live scenario stuff.

“You go in with an open mind and not wanting to make those decisions too early. I am miles away from thinking what a 33 is going to be at the moment.”

Gatland’s World Cup record during his first stint as Wales head coach featured semi-final appearances in 2011 and 2019.

– additional reporting PA