Hourcade resigns after Pumas’ series defeat

Daniel Hourcade has stepped down as Argentina coach following Saturday’s defeat to Wales in Sante Fe, claiming responsibility for the Pumas’ poor results.

Hourcade had been in charge of the Pumas since 2013, leading them to the 2015 World Cup semi-finals, but a Test series loss to Wales on home turf – their first since 1999 – proved to be the final straw.

The 60-year-old appeared alongside Marcelo Rodriguez, Argentina Rugby Union president, after Saturday’s 30-12 reverse to confirm his departure.

“The cycle has reached its end. I talked with the leadership and we felt that the message is no longer reaching the players,” he told the media. “I take responsibility.

“I have had excellent staff on both a human and professional level. They are the best I have worked with in professional rugby.”

#ARGvWAL #ConferenciadePrensa @danielhourcade junto al Presidente de la UAR, Marcelo Rodríguez. pic.twitter.com/Sywwx3uIFA

— Los Pumas (@lospumas) June 16, 2018

Argentina have not announced a replacement, but they will face Scotland next Saturday.

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