Warren Gatland to stay with Wales until 2015

Warren Gatland will remain as Wales coach until after the 2015 World Cup, ending speculation he could return to his native New Zealand after next year's finals.

Gatland took over from Gareth Jenkins after Wales' dismal 2007 World Cup and had instant success guiding the team to a Six Nations Grand Slam the following year.

Reports suggested he would leave Wales at the end of his contract next year and succeed Ian Foster at the Chiefs Super Rugby franchise, who are based in Hamilton.

But Gatland will now stay on until the end of the 2015 World Cup in England and will overtake Clive Rowlands as Wales' longest‑serving coach.

He said: "I have chosen to stay in Wales because of my confidence in the players we have, the coaching structures we have developed and the succession plan of talent we now constantly update, all fully resourced and supported by the Welsh Rugby Union. I know the other major rugby nations take us seriously as opponents who can play excellent rugby and that inspires me to help take this group of players even further."

WRU chief executive Roger Lewis revealed that discussions over a longer contract started 12 months ago. "I have great respect for Warren," said Lewis. "He lives and breathes rugby."