Fukofuka departs Scotland Women head coach role

Scottish Rugby has announced the departure of women's head coach Sione Fukofuka due to personal reasons after eight months in charge.

Fukofuka joined Scotland in December - shortly before the Women's Six Nations campaign - and led his side to a fifth-place finish, with their only win coming against Wales.

Following Fukofuka's departure, forwards coach Dave Butcher will take interim charge of Scotland ahead of the WXV Global series, beginning September 13.

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"I've had to make probably the hardest professional decision of my life to step away from the role as head coach," Fukofuka said.

"I approached Scottish Rugby and asked for a release from my contract under compassionate grounds. Effectively, the stress and the strain on my family, who are back in Australia away from me, proved too much to continue and to do this role the way it should be.

"With the time back home in Australia over the summer, it was able to give me a lot more insight into the sacrifices that they're making, on top of those that I make as well.

"We also had a change in circumstances where, unfortunately, my wife's parents are unwell, so that means the family relocating in the 12-month plan that we had is not feasible any more.

"I can't be away from my family for that amount of time and do the job the way it should be done."

Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora added: "I would like to thank Sione for his contribution to Scottish Rugby and whilst we are disappointed to see him depart, we fully respect and understand the reasons why he has made this decision.

"During his time in the role, Sione showed great passion and commitment to the national team and the wider women's programme at Scottish Rugby.

"Our priority remains supporting the women's national team and women's programme players and staff during this period, with work being done to ensure appropriate structures are in place ahead of the WXV Global Series, along with long-term recruitment conversations."