Warrior Rennie named as new head coach of Australia national team

GLASGOW Warriors head coach Dave Rennie has been appointed as Australia head coach on a three-and-a-half-year deal, t h e Wa l l a b i e s h a v e announced.

Rennie, who had also been approached about the vacant New Zealand post, succeeds Michael Cheika, who resigned after his side’s World Cup quarterfinal defeat to England in Japan in October.

It’s believed Glasgow have already identified Rennie’s successor and an announcement will be made soon, although the New Zealander will see out the current season with the Warriors and depart in July 2020.

The 55-year-old had previously stated he would see out his contract, which expires in June. Rennie joined Glasgow in 2017 after five years with Super Rugby club Chiefs in his home country.

Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle said: “This is a massive coup for Australian rugby. Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job and we’re thrilled to have secured his services.”

Scottish Rugby chief executive Mark Dodson said: “I’d like to thank Dave for the contribution he’s made to the development of Glasgow Warriors over the past two seasons.

“He’s l ed a t alented playing and coaching group with passion and encouraged the team to express themselves and play positive rugby throughout.”

Rennie said: “We’ve loved our time here around great people. It’s been as good as I could have wished for.

“I t ’s an exciting opportunity to coach at international level.

“All my focus is on the rest of t he season in Glasgow as we strive to be in the mix come play-off time in both competitions again.”

Dave Rennie has been appointed Australia coach.