Why Former Origin Star Les Kiss is Considered the Leading Candidate for the Wallabies Coaching Role

Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss has confirmed discussions with Rugby Australia as the race to succeed Joe Schmidt as the Wallabies’ coach ramps up.

Kiss, a former league player for both Kangaroos and Maroons, boasts an impressive 25-year coaching career that includes time spent as Schmidt’s assistant with Ireland.

This previous collaboration has led to speculation that Kiss could be the leading candidate to take the reins following Schmidt’s departure at the conclusion of the Rugby Championship in October.

Schmidt is open to offering his expertise as a consultant for the Wallabies from his home in New Zealand but wishes to be approached by the new appointee.

“It’s well known that Rugby Australia has been in touch with various coaches across the country. They’ve had a brief conversation with me,” Kiss shared with the press.

“My primary focus is on making sure the Reds perform well… I’m concentrating on our upcoming match against Moana Pasifika this Friday. That’s where my focus lies, honestly. My respect for this team is such that I want us to excel in our first game.”

When asked about his readiness to step into the Wallabies position, Kiss was clear.

“Right now, I’m focused on tomorrow’s captain’s run at Suncorp Stadium and executing our established plan. I have immense respect for my team, and my energy is devoted entirely to this venture.”

Schmidt is set to return home due to family circumstances.

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“As for Joe, I wish him the best to pursue what he wants to do – that’s perfectly understandable,” Kiss added.

“Many of us hold deep respect for him and his work. We know he’s dedicated to ensuring we get everything right this year, and that when the Lions arrive, we’ll be primed to achieve something exceptional.”

This week, Michael Cheika stirred up excitement when he was seen enjoying coffee with RA CEO Phil Waugh in North Sydney.

Reports suggest that Cheika’s camp initiated the meeting, seeking dialogue with Rugby Australia rather than vice versa, while he remains considered a long shot for a second stint as Wallabies coach.

Cheika, who will leave his current role at Leicester Tigers at the end of the season, is also rumoured to be in the running for the Wales coaching position.

“We’ve conducted extensive research to create a targeted shortlist of potential candidates who we believe can continue the momentum built under Joe Schmidt’s leadership,” Waugh stated.

“We have also received considerable interest from quality candidates from around the world, reflecting the positive direction the Wallabies are heading.”

Potential international candidates floated include Ronan O’Gara, Vern Cotter, Jamie Joseph, and former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie.

Wallabies legend Tim Horan expressed excitement over Rugby Australia’s discussions with Michael Cheika while appearing on Stan Sport’s Inside Line.

“I believe Michael Cheika ranks among the top three rugby coaches globally. The question remains whether that merits a seat at the table for the Wallabies.”

“There was certainly a parallel with Eddie Jones when considering managing Cheika’s return… history has shown us the risks associated with a second stint.”

Horan suggested that the current coaches from NSW Waratahs and ACT Brumbies should also be in the mix for consideration.

Both have previous experience as Wallabies assistants and have collaborated together.

“In my view, Dan McKellar and Stephen Larkham are exceptional coaches and should be the primary contenders for the Wallabies role,” Horan asserted.

“However, Rugby Australia may hesitate to disrupt McKellar’s progress with the Waratahs, especially with his new appointment. I believe Les Kiss would be the only coach open to the idea of having Joe Schmidt join the Wallabies’ coaching setup.”

“It’s unlikely that Stephen Larkham or Dan McKellar would be pulled away from their current roles, especially since Rugby Australia isn’t likely to be telling Schmidt he has to be involved in the new coaching setup. It will bubble down to the new head coach asking whether they want his assistance.

Former Wallabies lock Justin Harrison believes that the next head coach of the Wallabies should be able to stand on their own without needing guidance from Schmidt.

“If there’s a need for a consultant to provide insights into Australian rugby, then maybe they shouldn’t have been given this chance in the first place,” Harrison concluded.