Wallabies appoint new coach in place of Michael Cheika – and he’s from New Zealand

If you can’t beat them… Wallabies appoint a KIWI to coach to replace Michael Cheika after World Cup failure

  • Rugby Australia appointed New Zealand born Dave Rennie as their new coach 
  • The appointment of Rennie was officially announced on Wednesday morning
  • His contract is for four years meaning he will lead Australia into next World Cup 
  • Comes after a six month search to replace former coach Michael Cheika 

The Australian Rugby Union has appointed a New Zealand born coach to guide them to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Glasgow Warriors coach Dave Rennie was announced as the Wallabies new coach on Wednesday. 

The former Chiefs coach has long been pegged as the likely replacement for Michael Cheika, even before his resignation in October. 

Glasgow Warriors coach Dave Rennie (pictured) has been appointed as the Wallabies new coach for at least four years as the team heads toward the next Rugby World Cup

Rennie becomes the Wallabies’ second non-Australian coach, following countryman Robbie Deans who led the side from 2008 to 2013.

‘I’ve been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I’ve gone, I’ve immersed myself in the community and culture. I believe I can make a difference here,’ Rennie said.

‘There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system.

‘I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time.’

Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle said the appointment was a ‘massive coup’ for Rugby Australia and follows a six-month search for Cheika’s replacement. 

‘Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job, and we’re thrilled to have secured his services,’ she told Rugby.com.au. 

‘Dave’s coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars to building sustainable success in any team. 

Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle said they had been searching for Michael Cheika's (pictured) replacement for six months after he had indicated to them he would not seek re-appointment

Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle said they had been searching for Michael Cheika’s (pictured) replacement for six months after he had indicated to them he would not seek re-appointment

Because of his commitments with Glasgow in the Pro14, Rennie will take up the post with Australia in July.

‘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,’ Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle said.

‘Dave’s coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars to building sustainable success in any team. He has a proven track record in the northern and southern hemisphere.

‘Between now and June, the Wallabies assistant coaches and director of rugby Scott Johnson will take the lead in working with the players under Dave’s guidance and direction.’

 

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