A Kiwi to the Wallabies' rescue.
New Zealander Joe Schmidt has been named Australia coach, the Federation announced in a press release published Friday morning.
Aged 58, Schmidt comes from an experience as assistant of New Zealand and had previously been coach of Ireland (2013-2019) and assistant in charge of the back lines at Clermont (2007-2010 ).
We're excited to announce the appointment of Joe Schmidt as our new Head Coach đŠ
Full details đ https://t.co/y9pdFWzWdc#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/oW7RaQdujG
â Wallabies (@wallabies) January 19, 2024
He is taking on a huge challenge to regenerate the Australian selection, which is coming out of a disastrous World Cup with Eddie Jones at its head.
Eliminated in the first round by Wales and Fiji, the Australians have no time to lose, four years before their home World Cup.
âI am aware that the Wallabies have gone through a difficult period and I want to help them progress,â Schmidt said, quoted in the Rugby Australia press release.
Schmidt will begin his tenure with a series of test matches against Wales this summer.
âJoe enjoyed success winning European titles with Leinster, winning Six Nations Tournaments (âŠ) and, more recently, playing a part in the All Blacks' run to the World Cup final ", Phil Waugh, chief executive of Rugby Australia, said in the press release.
Winner of three Tournaments with Ireland, Schmidt also contributed to the first Brennus de Clermont, in 2010 against Perpignan (19-6).