Argentina appoints Edwards and brings back Ledesma

Argentina has appointed Shaun Edwards as its defence coach and brought former head coach Mario Ledesma back as forwards coach, strengthening Felipe Contepomi’s staff ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The Argentine Rugby Union announced the appointments on October 9. Edwards said he would join the team at the end of October, after completing a short-term consultancy with England’s women’s team, and remain through the World Cup. Reports described Ledesma’s return as a staff appointment, with his role identified as forwards coach. The additions come as Argentina prepares for the Nations Championship fixtures listed for November. The team is scheduled to play Ireland in Dublin on November 6, Italy in Genoa on November 14 and France on November 21; the venue for the France match was listed as to be confirmed. Edwards, 59, is returning to men’s international rugby after seven years as France’s defence coach. He previously held the same role with Wales for more than a decade. His work with the two teams included seven Six Nations titles, according to reports on his career.