Townsend to join France?

According to Midi Olympique, reports indicate that Scotland boss Gregor Townsend has put forward his name to join the Les Bleus coaching staff following the 2023 RWC.

Townsend has been in charge of Scotland since 2017 and the side has enjoyed steady progress under his mentorship.

Current French attack coach, Laurent Labit, will be leaving the set-up after the World Cup to join Top 14 giants, Racing 92, which has prompted a number of eager applicants to put their hands up.

Townsend was active in France during his playing days, having turned out for Brive, Castres and Montpellier. A subsequent familiarity with the rugby culture in France, as well as being fluent in French, could render him a very attractive option for the national side’s head coach, Fabien Galthie.

Yesterday, Scotland confirmed the departure, with immediate effect, of current attack coach AB Zondagh.

An SRU statement read:

“AB Zondagh has left his position as Scotland assistant coach for family reasons and to pursue opportunities. We wish him all the best and thank him for his contribution since joining in 2021.”