Schmidt named new Wallabies coach
FORMER IRELAND COACH JOE Schmidt vowed to “build a way forward” for the Wallabies after he was confirmed as their new coach on Jan 19.
New Zealander Schmidt will coach the Wallabies from Mar 1 until at least the conclusion of the British and Irish Lions Tour in 2025, governing body Rugby Australia (RA) said in a statement.
“I am conscious that the Wallabies have weathered a difficult period, and I am keen to help them build a way forward, with greater alignment and clear direction from RA,” Schmidt said.
“The upcoming Test matches against Wales will arrive quickly, post-Super Rugby, and the program through to the British and Irish Lions Tour next year presents plenty of opportunities and challenges – which I am sure will invigorate players and staff,” he added.
Last month, long-serving World Rugby administrator Peter Horne was appointed as RA’s new director of high-performance.
Horne has a strong relationship with 58-year-old Schmidt, who coached Ireland from 2013 to 2019 and was instrumental in helping them become the number one ranked team in the world.
More recently, Schmidt worked with the All Blacks as an assistant coach at the last World Cup, where they finished runners-up to South Africa.
“It was a unanimous decision to appoint
Joe – everyone on the panel was impressed by his demeanour, his calm and logical approach to the game, as well as his communication style,” Horne said.
“Throughout his career, Joe has demonstrated an ability to take a leadership role in structural reform while developing a strong culture and world-class players,” he added.
Australia have 18 months to prepare for the Lions tour and will host the men’s World Cup two years after that. Wales are due to tour Australia in July.
RA said details of coaching staff appointments would be announced later.
Schmidt takes over from Eddie Jones who acrimoniously quit in October after the team’s calamitous World Cup campaign, just 10 months into a five-year contract, having won just two from nine Tests and who has since been hired by Japan.