Michael Cheika, the former Wallabies coach, is set to make history by leading Leicester Tigers into the Premiership final against Bath this weekend. Regardless of the outcome, Cheika’s tenure with the Tigers wraps up as his one-year contract comes to an end. Should Leicester prevail, he would become the first coach to claim a Heineken Cup, Celtic Cup, Super Rugby title, and English Premiership.
Cheika’s impressive coaching resume includes leading Australia to the 2015 Rugby World Cup final and guiding Argentina to the semi-finals in 2023. As discussions begin in Australia about his potential return to rugby down under, Cheika expressed in an interview that he feels Australian rugby has little interest in his involvement.
With the Queensland Reds in need of a coach following the 2026 season when Les Kiss takes over the Wallabies, Cheika firmly stated that he could never coach Queensland, highlighting his loyalty to NSW. This leaves two likely positions that would interest him: either the Wallabies or a return to the NSW Waratahs.
Since the national team role is occupied for the foreseeable future, there have been suggestions about creative coaching arrangements, such as moving Dan McKellar from the Waratahs to the Reds. This hypothetical shift could then open the opportunity for Cheika to return to the Waratahs, injecting a dynamic and competitive spirit into Sydney’s rugby scene.
While some may argue that Australian rugby does not need Cheika’s presence, there is a strong sentiment that his involvement is desired. It’s crucial for the sport to keep him engaged rather than see him potentially pursue a coaching career in the NRL, which he has often considered.
As fans anticipate the Premiership final, with coverage available on Stan Sport, questions linger about Cheika’s future in rugby. His return could reshape the landscape of Australian rugby if all parties can align.