Wayne Pivac has confirmed that defence coach Byron Hayward has left his role ahead of the Autumn Nations Cup.
Hayward joined Pivac’s team in 2019 and was in charge of the defence for this year’s Six Nations, but has now left by mutual agreement.
Pivac and his coaching staff will take charge of defensive duties for Wales’ Group A schedule, which begins against Ireland on Friday.
“I would like to thank Byron for his hard work with Wales and his honesty in recent meetings,” said Pivac.
“I have worked alongside Byron for six and a half years, he is a dedicated coach that has had great success in his career.
“In the short-term, for the upcoming four matches, the existing coaching team will manage the defence based on the foundations already put in place. We will then look to replace Byron on a full-time basis with an announcement in due course.”
After they visit Dublin for the Autumn Nations Cup opener, Wales play Georgia and England before a play-off in December against a team from Group B.
Hayward added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Wales and it was an honour to coach my country.
“I would like to wish Wayne and the squad all the best going forward and I will be fully supporting them.”
