Gatland accepts Wasps post

January 6, 2002

Former Ireland coach Warren Gatland has accepted an offer from Zurich Premiership side London Wasps to become their defensive coach.

"The Wasps offer is appealing for monetary reasons as well as rugby reasons," Gatland told the Sunday Times.

"I can't afford to turn it down," added the former All Black who was sensationally sacked by the IRFU in November.

Gatland consulted current New Zealand coach John Mitchell, who had a stint as forwards coach at the club, before agreeing to take on the Wasps role.

"He enjoyed his spell there and spoke very highly of the place. I knew Nigel was a good guy and Mitch confirmed it.

"Nigel knows that I've got a lot more to offer than just coaching the forwards and we've also had a chat about that," added Gatland.

"When their top players are back, they have the potential to be a force again," said the former Irish coach.

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