‘It’s a tough farewell’: Wallabies lineout specialist departs to take over from Michael Cheika

The Wallabies are currently seeking a new assistant coach following the appointment of Geoff Parling by the Leicester Tigers, who will take over from Michael Cheika as head coach of the Premiership club.

Cheika has led the Tigers to an impressive second-place position in England this season; however, he will step down after the conclusion of the campaign.

Parling, a former lock for England and the British and Irish Lions, is set to depart from the Wallabies after the final Lions Test in Sydney on August 2.

The 41-year-old coach has been responsible for guiding the Wallabies’ forwards alongside Laurie Fisher and Mike Cron, with a specific emphasis on the lineout.

“There’s still a lot of work to be done with the Wallabies, and my focus remains on the immediate challenges we face, especially with the British and Irish Lions series quickly approaching,” Parling stated.

“I’ve felt incredibly privileged to work alongside some fantastic individuals during my time here, and I’d like to extend a special thanks to Joe (Schmidt) for the welcoming environment he has fostered within the Wallabies.”

“My family and I initially came to Australia for a short seven-month stint, but we’re now leaving after seven years, proudly identifying ourselves as Australian citizens and feeling fortunate to have been part of such a wonderful community.

“I’m eager to keep working diligently with our outstanding staff and to depart Australia on a high note.”

Parling is a legend at Leicester, clinching two Premiership titles during a remarkable club career that spanned over 300 matches.

NEW PODCAST! Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt offers insights on the Lions series and his selection criteria on BTP.

He moved to Australia in 2018 to play for the Melbourne Rebels and subsequently transitioned into coaching.

“Since arriving in Australia, Geoff has poured his heart and soul into Australian rugby, and we are immensely grateful for that,” stated Rugby Australia’s director of high performance, Peter Horne.

“While we are certainly disappointed to see him leave, we understand the opportunity afforded to him by Leicester Tigers is excellent for both his family and career. The Wallabies are looking forward to collaborating with Geoff throughout the Lions series, and he will forever hold a special place in Australian rugby.”

Rugby Australia will commence the search for Parling’s successor immediately.

Les Kiss, head coach of Queensland Reds, is poised to succeed Schmidt as the Wallabies’ coach after the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Parling was part of the 2013 Lions squad that triumphed 2-1 against Australia during their previous tour Down Under.

He will now take on the challenge of breaking down a Lions lineout that will be led by captain Maro Itoje.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside the national side, especially with a home World Cup on the horizon,” Parling remarked.

“I needed to find the right opportunity, and Leicester presented an attractive option with the right club, the right individuals, and the genuine potential within the playing squad – that’s what drew me in.”