John Kirwan believes the WRU wants a homegrown candidate

Kirwan also says the internal strife at the Welsh Rugby Union following the departure of Mike Ruddock from the post has weakened Welsh rugby's standing.

"I'm not applying, from what I can gather they're looking for someone with a Welsh background," Kirwan said.

"I also hear there's a pretty big meeting coming up where they'll be sorting out some internal politics."

The Union's 245 member clubs have called an extraordinary general meeting to address concerns over the way Welsh rugby is being run.

It would be an honour to coach a team like Wales John Kirwan

This includes, but is not limited to, the factors that led to Ruddock standing down as Wales coach in February and may involve a motion of no confidence in the 17-man WRU board.

The Union appeared happy to hand the Wales coaching reins to Scott Johnson, who took over as caretaker before returning to his native Australia as Wallabies assistant coach.

But now it seems that homegrown coaches are in pole position such as Llanelli Scarlets director of rugby Gareth Jenkins, overlooked when Ruddock was appointed, and Leeds Tykes counterpart Phil Davies.

Jenkins weighs up Wales decision

However, Kirwan - who coached the Azzurri between 2002 and 2005 - could be open to overtures should the WRU not find a suitable Welsh candidate.

"It would be an honour to coach a team like Wales," Kirwan added.

"I can't see myself going to the (2007) World Cup at this stage but I'm just seeing what is coming along at the monent.

"Coaching is what I do and what I love, so I'm just waiting for my next job to come up.