Here's the ex-Ireland man set to replace Joe Schmidt as Australia head coach
When Joe Schmidt's Australia reign comes to an end later this year, one former Ireland backroom coach will fill his position.
Ex-Leinster and Ireland head coach Schmidt took over with the Wallabies at the beginning of 2024.
However, he has agreed upon a departure ahead of the 2027 World Cup cycle in order to relocate to his native New Zealand to look after his youngest son, who has severe epilepsy – and former Ireland defence coach Les Kiss is set to fill his shoes Down Under. Joe Schmidt will leave Australia later this year. Pic: INPHO/Billy Stickland
Kiss is a former Ulster director of rugby, having served in the role from 2015 until 2018.
The 60-year-old previously enjoyed success as part of Ireland's coaching staff, first with Declan Kidney and latterly under Schmidt between 2009 and 2015. Les Kiss has worked extensively with former Ireland head coaches Declan Kidney (pictured) and Joe Schmidt in the past. Pic:He was defence coach in both regimes and his work yielded a Grand Slam with Kidney in 2009 as well as a Six Nations title delivered in 2014 under Schmidt.
With the pair having maintained a close working relationship, it is believed Schmidt would be open to remaining with Australia in a consultancy capacity if new boss Kiss was to offer a role to him.
Kiss is set to become the fifth Aussie head coach in six years as the country prepare to host the 2027 World Cup.
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