Warren Gatland: Shaun Edwards hits back at criticism

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards has hit back at suggestions that head coach Warren Gatland is under pressure due to his record against southern hemisphere sides.

Wales' loss to world champions New Zealand was their 26th in 27 games against the All Blacks, Australia and South Africa since Gatland took charge.

"What do you mean 'under pressure?'" said Edwards, 48.

"Being a Test match rugby coach, every game has got pressure."

Gatland, 51, who is under contract with Wales until 2019 and who has guided his side to three Six Nations titles, two Grand Slams and a World Cup semi-final, was asked about pressure during a television interview immediately after Saturday's 34-16 loss at the Millennium Stadium.

But Edwards, who has been part of the management team since Gatland took charge at the end of 2007 having worked with him previously at Wasps, has defended the Kiwi with another tough game against South Africa to come on Saturday in Cardiff.

"If you coach Wigan Under-11s, you get pressure," he said. "You are a coach. If you are coaching a Sunday League team you are under pressure to win a game. I don't understand what you are trying to get at. Do you mean do you think he is going to get sacked?"

Then in response to a question that winning 27 games means you are under less pressure than losing 27, Edwards said: "So what about if you win three Six Nations?"

And when told that was a good answer, he added: "It is a good answer. Next question."