Kidwell keen to keep his connection with Māori
Parramatta Eels assistant coach David Kidwell has stepped down to take up a role under Michael Cheika at the Argentine Rugby Union but the Māori All Stars mentor might not be completely lost to the game.
Kidwell, who coached the Kiwis at the 2017 World Cup, will leave for Argentina next month to become defence coach for Los Pumas ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup after being approached by Cheika with an opportunity he “couldn’t let pass”.
However, Kidwell is passionate about the Māori All Stars and might be able to continue coaching the team he has led to wins in 2020 and 2022 along with a 10-10 draw in 2021, as Argentina do not have any commitments in February.
“I came to win the World Cup, that’s my mentality,” Kidwell told the Argentinian media on Monday night at a press conference via Zoom with Cheika and newly appointed backs coach Felipe Contepomi.
“I told Michael, I’m very excited.
“I spoke with my family, it was a very big decision. I am very happy.”
Cheika doubles as Lebanon rugby league coach and a gap in the international rugby calendar will enable him to lead the Cedars at the postponed 2021 World Cup being played in England at the end of the season.
Sydney Roosters assistant Matt King has been appointed to the Lebanon staff for the World Cup, while former Cedars captain Robbie Farah is also involved.
Eels coach Brad Arthur said that while he enjoyed working with Kidwell, he understood that the opportunity to expand his horizons was too good an offer to refuse.
“Kiddy is a popular member of the club and while we are sad to see him go, we’re also happy for him and wish him the best in his next chapter,” Arthur said.
“He has a really good opportunity at Argentine Rugby and we’re glad we are able to provide a pathway for him to pursue.”