Michael Cheika is under consideration for a second term as coach of the Wallabies following a meeting with Rugby Australia executives. The former coach discussed the role with CEO Phil Waugh amid the search for a successor to Joe Schmidt, who recently announced his resignation after the Rugby Championship. With the next World Cup scheduled to take place in Australia in 2027, Rugby Australia is keen to secure a new coach soon.
Cheika was seen conversing with Waugh in North Sydney and is reportedly open to returning to lead the national team. The experienced coach previously guided the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final before being replaced in 2019, later taking up a coaching position with Argentina.
Currently, Cheika is with the Leicester Tigers but has confirmed he will not be extending his contract there past this season. Other candidates for the Wallabies coaching position include Les Kiss from Queensland, Dan McKellar of the Waratahs, and Stephen Larkham from the Brumbies—all of whom are currently contracted until 2026. Discussions are ongoing with these coaches as Rugby Australia aims to finalise a new appointment.