Cheika a Strong Contender for Wallabies Coach

Michael Cheika, the current Leicester Tigers head coach and former Wallabies coach, is a strong contender to succeed Joe Schmidt as the head coach of the Australian national rugby team, the Wallabies. Cheika recently met with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh, fueling speculation about his potential return to the Wallabies after Schmidt announced his departure following the Rugby Championship. Rugby Australia has confirmed the presence of a targeted shortlist for Schmidt's successor, which includes other candidates like Ronan O'Gara, Les Kiss, Dan McKellar, and Stephen Larkham. Cheika, known for leading the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final and coaching Argentina to the 2023 World Cup semi-finals, is currently back in Australia during the English Premiership break. Rugby Australia aims to appoint a new coach soon to lead the team on an upcoming northern hemisphere tour and prepare for the 2027 World Cup. The organization is looking for someone who can continue building on the platforms established in recent years.