Cardiff Rugby can confirm Matt Sherratt will depart the club with immediate effect to join Wales as Senior Men’s Attack Coach. 

Sherratt returned to the Arms Park for a second stint as Backs and Attack Coach in 2021 and spent the past two seasons as head coach. 

However, having led Wales as interim head coach in five fixtures in the past year, he now joins Steve Tandy’s back-room staff on a full-time basis. 

Cardiff’s remaining coach staff, Corniel van Zyl (forwards), Gethin Jenkins (defence) Jonny Goodridge (skills) and Scott Andrews (scrum), will continue to lead the Blue & Blacks, as they have previously in Sherratt’s absence. 

The club have swiftly begun a review process, with a short-term plan to be confirmed imminently while steps are taken to implement a longer-term plan.  

Sherratt said: “This was obviously a difficult decision to make as Cardiff is genuinely a club that means a huge amount to me and my family, and it’s also one that’s heading in the right direction.

“However, opportunities in the international game do not come around often and the chance to test myself at the highest level, while returning to a more hands on role, is something I could not turn down.

“I am enormously grateful to everyone at the club from players and coaches to the staff, supporters and sponsors, for making my time at the Arms Park so enjoyable.

“I am proud that we have been able to put the club back on solid foundations, have implemented a playing style that resonates with the history and city, and enjoyed so many memorable moments at the Arms Park. 

“The timing is not ideal, however I am confident that the club is in good hands with some excellent coaches and staff behind the scenes. 

“I wish everyone at Cardiff the very best for the season ahead and look forward to seeing you all at the Arms Park soon.”

Jamie Muir, Cardiff Rugby interim Managing Director, said: “Everyone at Cardiff would like to thank Matt for his contributions at the Arms Park and we all wish him and his family the very best for the future. 

“The fact that he has been approached by Wales is testament to the progress we have made as a club with him at the helm as head coach. 

“We are confident with the staff that remain in place and are fully focussed on kicking off the new season on Saturday night in positive fashion.”