Cheika keeps his job but will work under new boss
selector will be foundations for long-term success for all of our national teams, Super Rugby teams and pathway programmes.
‘‘Scott Johnson has built a strong reputation in the international rugby landscape over more than a decade, and since taking over as director of rugby in Scotland the national team has climbed to its highest ever world ranking of fifth. Scott has previous experience within the Wallabies coaching environment and in this new role will assume responsibility for the management of the Wallabies’ offfield programme to allow Michael Cheika to focus on what he does best, which is coaching the team.
‘‘We are confident Michael is the right man to lead the Wallabies to the World Cup and the appointment of Scott Johnson will support Michael and his coaching team as they prepare for the tournament in Japan next September.
‘‘In his review, Michael identified potential changes to the current structure and he and Scott will work their way through these recommendations,’’ Castle said.
Rugby Australia and the four Australian Super Rugby organisations agreed to principles on an aligned national high performance model.
The model is supported by a new national talent management structure, which was announced by Rugby Australia in September.
Castle said it had been ‘‘a tough year for all who love rugby, and this is an important step in building a strong, successful and sustainable future for Australian rugby and getting the Wallabies back to where they belong’’.