Wales assistant head coach Rob Howley has been sent home from the side’s Rugby World Cup base in Japan over a potential breach of betting regulations.
The 48-year-old, a former Welsh captain, has been part of Warren Gatland’s coaching set-up for more than a decade. He has also coached on each of the past three British and Irish Lions Tours.
Wales are due to begin their World Cup campaign against Georgia in Toyota on Monday, and will now have to do so without one of their most senior staff.
A Welsh Rugby Union statement read: “The WRU can confirm that Rob Howley has returned to Wales to assist with an investigation in relation to a potential breach of World Rugby regulation 6, specifically betting on rugby union.
“The decision was taken to act immediately in light of recent information passed to the WRU.
“No further details can be provided at this stage as this would prejudice the investigation. If required an independent panel will be appointed to hear the case.
“Rob has co-operated fully with our initial discussions and we would ask that the media appreciate this is a difficult and personal matter for Rob and that his privacy is respected before an outcome is reached.
“Warren Gatland has consulted with senior players and Stephen Jones will be arriving in Japan imminently to link up with the squad as attack coach.”
