Former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt is set to be unveiled as the next Australian head coach, per reports in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Fresh off playing a key role in New Zealand’s run to the final of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Schmidt is one of professional rugby’s most sought-after coaching names.
The 58-year-old will succeed Eddie Jones following a disastrous run, including a first-ever pool stage exit at a Rugby World Cup for the Wallabies.
During his time in charge of Ireland, Schmidt oversaw three Six Nations wins, including two Grand Slams, whilst also leading the men in green to their first victory over the All Blacks in 2016 as they rose to number one on the world rankings.
Departing Ireland in the wake of a disappointing Rugby World Cup quarterfinal exit against the All Blacks in 2019, Schmidt took up a role with World Rugby before returning to New Zealand and eventually joining Ian Foster’s All Blacks coaching staff.
His move to Australia will see Schmidt link up with his former colleague David Nucifora who will depart his role as Irish Rugby’s performance director at the end of this season.
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