Ex-Wallabies coach Michael Cheika accepts full-time role with Sydney Roosters

Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has taken another step towards a potential NRL head coaching career after accepting a full-time assistant role with the Sydney Roosters men’s team.

Cheika, who boasts an extensive background in rugby union, guided Australia between 2014 and 2019 and was named World Rugby Coach of the Year after leading the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final. He also coached Argentina’s national side and enjoyed success at club level, steering the NSW Waratahs to the 2014 Super Rugby title and more recently leading Leicester Tigers to the Premiership final in June, narrowly losing 23-21 to Bath.

However, his rugby league coaching experience remains relatively limited, consisting of a consultancy spell with the Roosters in 2020 and overseeing Lebanon’s campaign at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup.

Cheika had been linked with the Newcastle Knights vacancy earlier this year, but with Roosters assistant Justin Holbrook securing that role, a position became available within Sydney’s men’s programme.

In his new post, Cheika will focus on working with the forwards while also supporting coaches across the club’s pathways system.

Head coach Trent Robinson, a long-time friend of Cheika, welcomed the appointment, emphasising the fresh perspective his experience would bring.

“Michael and I have had a strong relationship for many years, and I’ve always admired the way he leads and challenges athletes,” Robinson said in a statement. “His background in rugby offers a different outlook that will inspire and test both our players and coaches.”

Cheika will officially begin his duties next month as the Roosters commence their pre-season preparations.