Wayne Pivac says he hopes to appoint a new defence coach after Wales’ autumn schedule following news Byron Hayward has left his role.
Hayward joined head coach Wayne Pivac in 2019 and drilled the defence during this year’s Guinness Six Nations.
Pivac and the remaining coaches will take charge of defensive duties for Wales’ Autumn Nations Cup schedule, which begins against Championship rivals Ireland on Friday night.
“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.”
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.”