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The latest top rugby news stories from Wales and beyond today
These are the rugby stories making headlines on Wednesday, January 14
Welsh coach steps back over mental health issue
Respected Aberavon RFC head coach Jason Hyatt as stepped away from his job for the remainder of the season due to mental health issues. Hyatt has made the brave move to concentrate on getting better with the support of his family.
The Super Rygbi Cymru club issued a statement on Tuesday night, explaining the situation and offering their full support to the man who has become a legendary figure in the area after 13 years in charge. He is credited with helping the careers of a number of top players, none more so than Wales captain Jac Morgan who he identified as a huge star years before he emerged.
Aberavon said in a statement: “Jason has decided that he needs to step away from rugby for the remainder of the season to help deal with a mental health issue that he is currently struggling with. We have agreed that it is in his and his family’s best interests to take a break from the game and the club he holds dear to him.
“It takes a very brave man to front up to challenges such as this and seek help, which is what Jason has done. All too often we hear stories of men, in particular, who bury their heads in the sand and suffer in silence, often with very serious consequences.
“He does not want to hide from the issues or make excuses, in the hope that it helps to highlight the ongoing problems that so many people face in life. As a club, we will provide him with as much support as we can to aid his recovery, and he knows that support is there for him.
“I am sure I speak on behalf of everyone at the club in wishing Jason a speedy return to good health. On that path he will be very well looked after by his wife Jo, together with his son and daughter, Lewis and Leah.
“Our very best wishes go to them all.”
Chris Davies will step up to head the coaching team in Hyatt’s absence, assisted by Nick White, Sam Williams, Tom Jones and Sam Brookes.
All Blacks player revolt
New Zealand Rugby is facing mounting pressure to change the All Blacks coaching team amid a reported player revolt against head coach Scott Robertson and his assistants.
An internal review of the autumn campaign, which saw New Zealand lose to England and scrape past Scotland, has come back with scathing results, according to the New Zealand Herald, with players openly critical of Robertson, assistant Scott Hansen and the culture they have created.
Star player Ardie Savea, who captained the side many times last season, is said to be one of those seriously unhappy and is now considering not returning to the All Blacks unless a change is made. The Herald says Savea is exploring discussions to stay on with Japanese club Kobe beyond this year or join a European club, with Leinster believed to be a possible destination.
Issues with communication, trust, strategy and selection all said to have been raised with bosses and it remains to be seen if New Zealand Rugby chief David Kirk is now forced to act.
World Cup winner joins Wales duo
Gloucester have announced the signing of South Africa World Cup winner Jean Kleyn.
The uncompromising lock will head to the club for the 2026/27 season from Munster and joins Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake as the Cherry & Whites look to strengthen their pack.
Director of rugby George Skivington said: “Jean is a player I’ve admired for a long time. He brings real edge, experience, and a winning mentality, which will be invaluable for our group.
“His physical presence and professionalism will raise standards across the squad, and we’re excited to welcome him to Kingsholm.”
Speaking on the move, Kleyn added: “I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season. It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career.
“I can’t wait to get started, meet the supporters, and give everything I have for this team.”
Kleyn was part of Rassie Erasmus’ South Africa squad that won the 2023 Rugby World Cup, with Kleyn featuring in the final.
Munster Rugby general manager Ian Costello said: “Jean is an exceptional character and represents everything that is good about Munster. JK has had an immeasurable impact on Munster Rugby both on and off the pitch since joining the province 10 years ago.
“A complete professional, JK is a hugely popular member of the squad and I know he will be hugely missed by the playing group and all of those who work with him on a daily basis.
“We will wish him and his family all the best and as a group we will be highly motivated to ensure this season is a successful and memorable one for JK and his family.”
Jones heads for Toulon
Scotland and Glasgow Warriors centre Huw Jones is joining Toulon next season.
The Lions midfielder has made 82 appearances for the Scottish club, spanning two spells at Scotstoun.
His form for club and country lead to Andy Farrell selecting him for last summer’s tour of Australia where he played in all three Lions Tests against the Wallabies.
He will now depart for France and will link up with new side for the 2026/27 campaign.
In a statement, the Warriors said: “Glasgow Warriors can confirm that Huw Jones will join Top14 side RC Toulon this summer, after agreeing to make the move to France at the end of the season.
“The centre – who returned from injury in try-scoring fashion during Saturday’s 33-21 away victory over ASM Clermont-Auvergne – has made 82 appearances to date in a Glasgow Warriors jersey, spanning two spells with the Scotstoun outfit.
“He crossed for the third – and ultimately match-winning – try in the BKT United Rugby Championship Grand Final victory over the Vodacom Bulls in June 2024, one of 28 tries in Glasgow colours to date.
“His form for club and country saw him selected for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, featuring in all three Tests and scoring a try in the decisive second Test victory.
“The club wishes Jones the best for the future, and look forward to continuing to work with the centre for the remainder of the season.”
