WALES head coach Warren Gatland believes that Roger Lewis' departure as Welsh Rugby Union group chief executive later this year "probably does" have a bearing on his own long-term future.
Gatland (right), who was signed up by Lewis eight years ago, is under contract with Wales until 2019. Lewis, 60, will leave his post after the World Cup next October, with the WRU saying that their search for a successor is to begin immediately.
Asked yesterday if Lewis's exit had any bearing on his long-term future as Wales head coach, Gatland said: "Yeah, it probably does." Then asked if he would like to elaborate on that, the New Zealander replied: "No."
Gatland has recalled wing George North and prop Samson Lee for Saturday's Six Nations clash against France in Paris. North has not played since taking two blows to his head during a 21-16 home defeat against England earlier this month, with Wales deciding to rest him for the Scotland game nine days ago.
But Northampton star North now returns, replacing his fellow 2013 British and Irish Lion Alex Cuthbert, and Lee - who was concussed in the England match - takes over from Aaron Jarvis. Two other changes following the 26-23 victory over Scotland see starts for hooker Scott Baldwin and lock Luke Charteris.