DECLAN Kidney has been removed from his role as Head Coach of Ireland's rugby team.
The IRFU announced last night that it would not be renewing Kidney’s contract, due to expire at the end of June.
His five-year tenure had ended with immediate effect after a meeting with IRFU chief executive Philip Browne at the Lansdowne Road.
Browne said: "We would like to sincerely thank Declan for his commitment to Irish Rugby.
"His contribution and involvement across the spectrum of Irish rugby delivered Under Age, Provincial, Grand Slam and Triple Crown success, and epitomises his passion, belief and commitment to the game.”
The decision follows an in-depth review carried out by the National Team Review Group.
Since winning the 2009 Grand Slam, Kidney’s Ireland have won only 16 out of 40 Tests, recently recorded their worst performance in the Six Nations in over a decade, and slumped to their worst ever world ranking of nine.
Assistant Coach Les Kiss will take charge of the forthcoming summer tour of North America.
Speaking about future head coach plans, Browne said: "With a host of new and emerging talent at every level, and despite the clear challenges ahead, we are confident of securing another world-class coach to work with this talented and ambitious group of players.”
Early candidates for the job include Mike Ruddock, Ireland Under-20 coach; Conor O'Shea, Harlequins manager; Mark McCall, Saracens boss; Jake White, former South Africa coach; and interim manager Kiss.
