Warren Gatland says he left his role as Wales head coach after being "weighed down" by criticism – including from his former players.

Warren Gatland admitted he is “hurting” since departing as Wales head coach, citing a "huge amount of negativity" in the Welsh media as a pressure point.

Former Wales coach Warren Gatland has insisted that leaving his role was the “best decision” for all concerned. After starting the Six Nations with successive defeats against Ireland and Italy, the New Zealander departed having racked up just six wins in 26 Test matches during his second stint in charge.

Warren Gatland says he is "hurting" following his departure as Wales head coach. Gatland left his role on February 11 by mutual agreement with the Welsh Rugby Union following a run of 14 successive Test defeats.

Warren Gatland says he is "hurting" following the end of his time as Wales head coach. Gatland, 61, left by mutual agreement with the Welsh Rugby Union last week after overseeing a national record run of 14 successive test defeats.

Whatever about the rights and wrongs of the Ireland centre's high-profile omission, Warren Gatland's decision to name 10 Welshmen in his starting line-up drew

Former Wales head coach Warren Gatland has said growing criticism around his side's performances spurred his decision to leave after the defeat to Italy.

Warren Gatland has admitted that he is “hurting” after his second stint in charge of Walesw was brought to an end, but stressed that his exit was the “best decision for everybody”. Gatland’s tenure as head coach ended by mutual consent last week just two rounds into the Six Nations after the veteran presided over a run of 14 consecutive defeats.