The search for the next Wallabies coach has reached a fever pitch, with a secret meeting between former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika and Rugby Australia boss Phil Waugh sparking intense speculation about the future of the team.
According to sources, Cheika was spotted with Waugh in a discreet location, fueling rumors that he may be in contention for the top job once again. The meeting is believed to have taken place as part of Rugby Australia's thorough search for a successor to Joe Schmidt, who is set to depart the role after the current season.
While neither Cheika nor Waugh has publicly confirmed the details of their meeting, insiders suggest that the discussion centered around Cheika's potential candidacy for the position. Cheika, who previously coached the Wallabies from 2014 to 2019, has been touted as a strong contender for the role, given his extensive experience and knowledge of the team.
The news of Cheika's meeting with Waugh has sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with many fans and pundits weighing in on the potential appointment. Some have expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of Cheika's return, citing his successful track record and ability to inspire the team to perform at their best.
Others, however, have raised concerns about Cheika's potential return, pointing to his previous tenure and the team's inconsistent performance during his time at the helm. Critics argue that Cheika's coaching style and tactics may not be the best fit for the team's current needs, and that a fresh perspective may be necessary to take the Wallabies to the next level.
Despite the speculation, Rugby Australia has remained tight-lipped about the search for the next Wallabies coach. Waugh has stated that the organization is committed to finding the best possible candidate for the role, and that a thorough and rigorous process is being undertaken to identify the most suitable applicant.
As the search for the next Wallabies coach continues to heat up, fans and pundits will be eagerly awaiting any further developments. With Cheika's meeting with Waugh sparking intense interest and debate, it remains to be seen whether he will ultimately be appointed to the role, or if another candidate will emerge as the successful applicant.
One thing is certain, however: the next Wallabies coach will have a significant impact on the team's performance and future success. As the rugby community waits with bated breath for the announcement of the new coach, the stakes are high, and the pressure is on Rugby Australia to make the right decision.
Only time will tell if Cheika's meeting with Waugh is a sign of things to come, or if it is simply a smokescreen designed to throw pundits and fans off the scent. As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the search for the next Wallabies coach is set to be one of the most intriguing and dramatic stories in Australian rugby.