Steve Tandy says 'clarity' and 'backing' can help Wales players perform ahead of Quilter Nations Series bow against Argentina
Updated 07/11/2025 at 12:40 GMT
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New Wales head coach Steve Tandy says that giving his players "clarity" is his key focus as he prepares to lead his side into the Quilter Nations Series. Wales will face Argentina on Sunday before going head-to-head with Japan, New Zealand and South Africa later this month. Tandy took charge of the side in July, shortly after they beat Japan to end an 18-game run without a win.
Tandy: 'Success is building our game' on journey to 2027 World Cup
Video credit: TNT Sports
Steve Tandy says that giving his players "clarity" is his key focus as he sets about regenerating Wales as a rugby force.
Wales ended a run of 18 consecutive defeats with a 31-22 victory against Japan in July, and they will be hoping to build on that win against Argentina in the Quilter Nations Series on Sunday.
Tandy was announced as head coach following that crucial triumph over the Cherry Blossoms in the summer.
During a TNT Sports interview with former Wales fly-half Dan Biggar, Tandy shared his belief that he needs to keep things simple in a bid to get his side back to the top table of international rugby.
"The lessons I have had have set me up to really immerse myself in this and get a group together so we can build something for the future," Tandy said.
"I think we need to create the realignment for the boys.
"How can we simplify things and get those messages across to the players, but also how the players understand it.
"For us as coaches, giving them the backing when they go out on that field."
Wales will also face Japan, New Zealand and South Africa during a busy November schedule.
Tandy's side is currently 12th in the World Rugby Union rankings, below the likes of Italy and Georgia.
He says that Wales have nowhere to "hide" now that they have dropped to this lowly, unfamiliar position.
"I think it is an opportunity, I think it is an exciting opportunity," he said. "If you look through history, Wales have always had low points.
"You [Dan Biggar] have seen some of the biggest highs. Now, where we are at, 12th in the world, there is no hiding place, but I just see opportunity.
"We have got young players, there are past players, and there are people who are willing on Wales to become what we want them to become. So for me, it is exciting."
Before taking the Wales job, Tandy was Scotland's defence coach.
He admitted that he could not turn down the opportunity to become the first Welsh head coach of the national team since 2007.
"It is the biggest honour," he added. "I feel really privileged and grateful as well.
"From the village I grew up in, to playing as a kid on the field and watching teams.
"Sometimes it is those pinch me moments, when I walked in for the first press duties in the changing room.
"You see the flags and the jerseys and the dragon, and it is just unbelievable. I feel really privileged and grateful, but at the same time, there's so much excitement as well.
"I think it is the pinnacle. When your home nation comes knocking, having that opportunity, there is no way I could turn that down."
Watch and stream every game of the Quilter Nations Series live on TNT Sports and discovery+
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