Mike told me that he would not be seeking a renewal of his contract for personal and family reasons, even though we had reached agreement on its terms. We both agreed that it would be in his and the team's best interests if he stepped down immediately. This has come as a shock.
Scott has told us that he wants to stay in Wales, but he has some issues to sort out in Australia and he has kept us informed about his position. We have agreed to meet at the end of the Six Nations to thrash out his contractual position.
We have agreed that we will meet immediately after the championship to thrash out his contractual situation.
As a result it has been agreed between the WRU and Ruddock that he will stand down with immediate effect. In his absence Scott Johnson will take over as head coach for the remainder of the championship.