Warren Gatland reached for his phone. The doubts that had been festering since the autumn campaign had multiplied to the extent that they formed into a dark cloud in his mind. More than anything, he felt alone.

Michael Cheika, Franco Smith and Simon Easterby have emerged as early favourites for the Wales job As Welsh rugby comes to terms with the sudden departure of Warren Gatland, the search is on to replace the most successful coach in its history.