New Zealander Dave Rennie has been confirmed as the new coach for the Wallabies.
Currently completing his his third and final season as the Glasgow Warriors coach, Rennie accepted a deal to lead the Wallabies to the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Rugby Australia boss Raelene Castle has spoken highly of the new appointment.
“This is a massive coup for Australian rugby, Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job, and we’re thrilled to have secured his services,” said Castle.
“Dave’s coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars to building sustainable success in any team.”
“He has a proven track record in the northern and southern hemisphere.”
“Given incumbent head coach Michael Cheika had indicated in early 2019 the possibility that he would not seek re-appointment for the role, we needed to identify a list of candidates that would be available to us, and suitable to work within our new high performance framework.”
“This search has been ongoing for the past six months.”
“When Michael then confirmed he would not seek re-appointment following our Rugby World Cup exit, we moved to appoint our preferred candidate.”
“I have had extensive conversations with Dave, and he was interviewed by Rugby Australia chairman Cameron Clyne and fellow board directors and former Wallabies Brett Robinson and Phil Waugh before being appointed to the role.”
“It was important to Dave to see out his contract with Glasgow and he will commence with the Wallabies at the completion of the Pro 14 season.”
“Between now and June, the Wallabies assistant coaches and director of rugby Scott Johnson will take the lead in working with the players under Dave’s guidance and direction.”
“Dave and Scott worked closely together during their time in Scotland and will join forces once again to implement Rugby Australia’s national high performance plan.”
“With Dave as head coach and Scott managing our off-field program, the Wallabies have the right structure in place to build for the next era of sustained success.”
New Zealand Rugby also wanted Rennie to take over the vacant All Blacks position but he opted against it with All Blacks assistant Ian Foster and Crusaders coach Scott Robertson considered the most likely to take the job.
Rennie takes over in July after his contract in Scotland finishes and his first game will be against Ireland in Brisbane on July 4.
“My wife Steph and I have spent the past few months considering our future and we’re really excited about our decision,” Rennie said.
“I’ve been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I’ve gone, I’ve immersed myself in the community and culture.”
“I believe I can make a difference here.”
“There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system.”
“I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time.”
“When I met Raelene Castle, I was really impressed with her plans for the future of Australian rugby and I’m keen to be part of that.”
“We’ve loved our time here in Glasgow.”
“The coaching group and management are absolutely world class.”
“The work ethic and passion of the players has been incredible, and we will miss them.”
After a disappointing spell under Michael Cheika Rugby Australia is hoping Rennie will have an immediate impact.
Rennie coached the Chiefs to Super Rugby titles in his first two seasons and they never missed the finals with him in charge. He also took Glasgow to the Pro 14 final this year where they lost 18-15 to Irish club Leinster.
