England want Roger Lewis

WALES rugby boss David Pickering has spelt out his determination to keep hold of WRU chief executive Roger Lewis, who is being linked to the top job with England.

It is understood Lewis has been approached by headhunting firm Odgers & Berndtson, the company tasked with providing a shortlist of candidates for a new chief executive at the crisis-hit Rugby Football Union.

The Twickenham position is vacant following the recent resignation of RFU acting chief executive Martyn Thomas – who replaced John Steele following his controversial departure back in the summer.

England are looking to appoint a new boss who will help restore the image of the Red Rose team after the debacle surrounding the recent World Cup.

Not only did Martin Johnson’s team crash out in the quarter-finals, the conduct of some of his players off the pitch also led to stinging criticism.

Lewis is seen as an individual capable of turning English rugby fortunes around and has impressed rugby bigwigs across the Severn Bridge following the work he has done with Wales.

After five years at the helm of the WRU, it is understood that Lewis is taking stock before deciding on the next stage in his career.

Having tied the Welsh coaching team of Warren Gatland, Shaun Edwards and Rob Howley to new deals, Lewis could yet decide to continue in his current role with Wales.

But he is believed to be weighing up his options and whether to take on the challenge of helping to revive the fortunes of old enemy England.



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