The contenders in the running to take over as Wallabies head coach

Australia’s dismal World Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of England has seen the axe fallen on Michael Cheika, bringing a blunt end to his five-year tenure at the helm of the Wallabies.

His departure as the country’s head coach has left Rugby Australia on a global scout for a replacement, with the selected candidate expected to fill the void by Christmas.

Subsequently, Australian media outlet AAP has conjured a shortlist of potential successors to Cheika, all of whom hold coaching positions at club and international level across the world and would be tasked with reigniting the spark that the Wallabies have seemingly lost since their 2015 World Cup final appearance four years ago.

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WALLABIES COACH CONTENDERS

Dave Rennie (Glasgow Warriors) – The short-priced favourite. Calm, intelligent, successful at Super Rugby level and shares a close association with Scott Johnson. The seasoned Kiwi coach has committed to seeing out his Glasgow Warriors contract, which finishes in June, 2020, meaning he wouldn’t have long to get his first Wallabies team up to speed.

Eddie Jones (England) – Is said to have support on the Rugby Australia board to return to the job he held from 2001-05. Is contracted with England for another two years but there’s no guarantee he’d see that through given the fickle nature of the post. Jones has intimated he’d consider returning to Australia or even coaching a tier two team but in April opined there should be “generational change” the next time a Wallabies coach is appointed.

Jamie Joseph (Japan) – Boasts the fastest rising stock in the coaching game such has been his impact with Japan at the Rugby World Cup. Speculated as an All Blacks coaching prospect although the tough Kiwi has also made noises about staying on with the Brave Blossoms.

Dan McKellar (Brumbies) – In charge of Australia’s premier Super Rugby team. Had them humming for large parts of 2019 but may need another good year before he enters the international stage.

Scott Wisemantel (England) – Attack consultant with England but has limited head coaching experience. Would be a left field selection and shapes as a more likely assistant.

AAP

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