Morgan Turinui is confident that Michael Cheika would thrive as an NRL coach, stating that he is currently “at the peak of his powers” while contemplating his next move.
In a fitting finale, Cheika’s brief tenure with the Leicester Tigers came to an explosive end over the weekend, as the 58-year-old expressed his frustration at Dan Cole’s “embarrassing” yellow card during their 23-21 loss to Bath in the Premiership final at Twickenham.
This week, Cheika is set to return to Sydney to weigh his options, with a role in the NRL firmly on his radar.
Michael Cheika at Allianz Stadium. Getty
The former Wallabies mentor, who shares Eddie Jones’ fervour for the rival sport, currently manages Lebanon’s national rugby league side.
Cheika was keen to step in as national coach after Joe Schmidt’s departure next year, but Rugby Australia chose Queensland Reds’ Les Kiss for what they believe is a more stable and manageable appointment.
“Michael Cheika boasts the most impressive coaching resume of any Australian currently in the game,” Turinui stated on Stan Sport’s Between Two Posts.
“How we utilise a talent like that ultimately rests with those more knowledgeable than myself, but it would be regrettable if we had to face a team he was coaching.”
“And should the NRL be bold enough to hire him, they certainly won’t regret that decision.”
Under the guidance of current NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar, Leicester finished eighth out of ten teams last season, but Cheika orchestrated a remarkable climb up the ranks.
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Previously, he guided Argentina to the semi-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Turinui highlighted Cheika’s personality as being well suited to the rigours of the NRL, enhanced by his extensive club experiences across Italy, Ireland, France, and Japan.
“He has that ideal blend of steel and resilience,” he added.
“You’ve got to be able to motivate your players, particularly in June when they’re worn out. It’s a long haul week after week, and he’s experienced that in Europe.
“It’s not a sprint like Super Rugby, so his European insights are invaluable.
“Managing a large squad, navigating high turnover rates, and coping with players missing due to Origin commitments—all these tasks require experience. He has assisted the Roosters and understands the game well. I genuinely believe he’s at the pinnacle of his abilities now, fully aware of his strengths and limitations.”
Michael Cheika observes as Roosters coach Trent Robinson gives instructions to the players. Getty
“He understands his role well, is an excellent motivator, and a savvy coach. Plus, he’s clever enough to attract the right talent to support him, like having (David) Kidwell overseeing defence at Leicester. All these factors make it truly intriguing to envision him leading an NRL team.”
Recently, Cheika told The Sydney Morning Herald that the rugby climate in Australia had soured for him, making league his primary option if he remains on home soil.
“If I want to stay in Australia, league is virtually my only avenue,” he stated.
“Otherwise, I would have to pursue opportunities overseas to continue coaching (in rugby). I have a wealth of experience, and I am definitely keen on that (NRL) opportunity if a club believes they need my specific skill set, aligned with the right team structure, and so forth. That’s how it will pan out.
“I won’t just be applying for every role that pops up. It must be a situation where a club desires my skills and sees the value in what I bring, and that alignment must start from the top.”
“If that occurs in league, that would be fantastic, as mastering that challenge would be monumental.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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