Super Rugby
Force dismiss Reds-bound Graham
ESPNscrum Staff
April 20, 2012
Western Force coach Richard Graham, Western Force training session, UWA Sports Park, Pert, Austraila, January 10, 2011
Richard Graham has left the Force with immediate effect © Getty Images
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The Western Force have dismissed current coach Richard Graham just days after he announced that he would join the Reds at the end of the season.

Graham has been "stood down" as head coach with immediate effect with coaching trio Nick Stiles, Phil Blake and Andrew Scotney taking charge for the rest of the season. The Force claim that they have had more than 30 applicants already expressing interest in the vacant position with local media reporting that Canterbury coach Rob Penney and Stade Francais boss Michael Cheika are in the frame.

Despite Graham's slightly unceremonious exit, the Force have thanked him for his time in charge of the franchise while saying that the decision to change the backroom staff was made after consulting a range of stakeholders.

"The board has determined that a change to the coaching structure is for the betterment of the Western Force with still half a season to play in 2012," CEO Vern Reid said. "The decision has come about after a carefully considered and consultative approach.

"The board put in place a clear process to determine the appropriate course of action and met regularly to receive feedback from key stakeholders. The result is that a firm and informed decision in the best interests of the Western Force has been taken."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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