Harry Wilson and Max Jorgensen are optimistic that Joe Schmidt will continue his role as Wallabies coach as Rugby Australia seeks innovative solutions in their discussions with the New Zealander.
Schmidt’s contract with RA concludes following this year’s British and Irish Lions tour.
Initially, both Schmidt and RA aimed to reach a decision on his future by Christmas, but as the start of Super Rugby approaches on February 14, the situation remains precarious and unclear.
Australia coach Joe Schmidt prior to the Autumn Nations Series match. Getty
“There’s obviously a lot of interest surrounding this aspect, and Joe has been exceptional since joining as national coach at the beginning of 2024. We’re still in discussions,” RA chief executive Phil Waugh told SEN.
“We had previously aimed to finalise the position by the end of 2024, but this has extended into 2025, and we’re currently working with Joe and others to define what the landscape looks like for the post-Lions phase, ensuring we cultivate the right environment, culture, and performance from our Wallabies.”
“It’s an ongoing process to determine the future coaching structure for the Wallabies following the Lions tour.”
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Joe Schmidt of the Wallabies conversing with Phil Waugh. Getty
When asked about the meaning of “creative” in the context of persuading the 59-year-old coach, Waugh replied, “Everyone has greatly appreciated Joe’s role in the environment and his leadership of the group, so it’s about determining how we can accommodate Joe for what works best for him and the Wallabies following the Lions tour.”
“Joe is fostering a robust culture within the squad.”
Schmidt’s family, including his wife and son, who has severe epilepsy, are based in Taupo, New Zealand, and the coach has been clear about prioritising family commitments.
The uncertainty continues.
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson expressed he has no insight into Schmidt’s potential decisions.
“We hold immense respect for Joe and everything he has contributed to our squad and my personal growth,” Wilson stated to Wide World of Sports during a visit to Melbourne in support of Alex de Minaur and the Australian Open.
“We are all very thankful for his presence, and while we’d love for him to stay, family must come first in all aspects, and whatever he chooses will be the right decision for him and his family.”
When asked how challenging it would be to start anew with a different coach should Schmidt depart, Wilson said, “He is a world-class coach, and as the year progressed, we became increasingly accustomed to his coaching style and approach.”
“The way we played on the UK tour (Spring Tour) showed we were beginning to gel. It would be fantastic to keep him on to continue our development and improvement.”
“We all enjoy playing under the current coaching group, and while it would be a transition to adapt to a new coach, we will respect Joe’s decision regardless.”
Speculation suggests Schmidt may collaborate with Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss as part of the Wallabies’ setup or hand over leadership to his former Ireland colleague.
When asked about Kiss’s readiness for this potential advancement, Wilson replied, “I’d rather not comment on that. What I can say is that I have really appreciated Les’s coaching at Queensland; he’s been brilliant for me and many of the lads.”
“I believe we have all made significant strides under his guidance, and I truly hope this year will be a monumental one for him with the Reds.”
Wallabies star Max Jorgensen shared with WWOS that he is equally unaware of Schmidt’s intentions.
“We haven’t received any updates, but he’s undoubtedly a top coach,” Jorgensen remarked.
“He’s made significant contributions to Australian rugby, but we recognise that he has family commitments outside of rugby that need to be addressed.”
“Ultimately, it’s his choice. We will support him, but if he stays, it would be fantastic for Rugby Australia.”
On another note, Waugh confirmed that Wallabies legend Michael Hooper is being considered to represent a combined ANZAC side against the Lions in Adelaide on July 12.
Hooper has signed with Toyota Verblitz in Japan.
Michael Hooper of Toyota Verblitz showing his gestures at Prince Chichibu Memorial Ground. Getty
“It’s wonderful to see Hoops getting back on the field,” Waugh noted.
“We aim to assemble a very prominent team, so if Hoops is fit, I’m looking forward to discussing what his role in that match might entail.”
Toyota’s general manager, Akitomo Goto, expressed his hopes that Hooper’s presence would inspire young talent in Japan.
“This time, we are looking for not just his performance on the field but also his ability to help nurture the young players who will represent Japan in the near future,” Goto stated.
“We anticipate he will exemplify professionalism and leadership both on and off the pitch.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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