Steve Salvin is set to unleash his forwards expertise on Wales Women as he trades in his Exeter Chiefs hat for a full-time role with the national side. The highly respected coach, who has worked wonders with the likes of Rotherham and Leeds Carnegie in the past, joins up with head coach Sean Lynn's squad on August 3rd – just in time to shake off the summer slumber ahead of the WXV challenge.
The Exeter Chiefs stalwart leaves behind a Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) legacy that includes two consecutive finals appearances and a top-three finish this season. He will be remembered for guiding the Chiefs to those impressive results, despite the semi-final heartbreak against Saracens. Salvin has certainly earned his stripes, with stints at Rotherham, Leeds Carnegie, and Worcester Warriors prior to taking the helm at Exeter.
Sean Lynn is over the moon to have the former PWR stalwart on board, praising his 'technical wizardry' and ability to connect with players in the women's game. The duo has already had a taste of success together during the Six Nations campaign – no doubt they will relish more victories ahead.
The road to WXV glory won't be easy for Wales, but with Salvin on board, they'll surely feel bolstered by his tactical acumen and energy. They've got big games against South Africa and the USA at Cardiff Arms Park in September, followed by two Test matches in Japan in October – a true test of their mettle.
As for Exeter Chiefs, they're on the hunt for their third head coach in just over 12 months – quite the coaching merry-go-round. With new American owners taking charge this week, it's an intriguing time to find themselves in need of a new leader.