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Michael Cheika to return as Waratahs head coach for 2027 season
Michael Cheika has agreed to return as the head coach of the Waratahs for at least the 2027 Super Rugby season. The agreement follows three weeks of negotiations between Cheika and Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh.
Cheika, who previously led the franchise to a Super Rugby title in 2014, will reunite with several former teammates. Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps have recently re-signed with the team for 2027, while Stephen Hoiles is considered a frontrunner for a senior assistant coaching role. Other 2014 alumni, such as Wycliff Palu, are also being discussed for assistant positions.
The return comes after the departure of Dan McKellar in June. While Cheika did not initially apply for the vacancy, the involvement of senior New South Wales players in advocating for his return helped facilitate the deal. Analysts note that while his return is welcomed, Cheika faces a more competitive landscape than during his first tenure, with the Reds and Brumbies having established highly successful programs.
Entities
Bernard Foley · Brumbies · Michael Cheika · Phil Waugh · Reds · Rugby Australia · Wallabies · Waratahs
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] During Cheika’s first year as coach in 2013, the Waratahs achieved eight wins and eight losses. www.watoday.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.smh.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] In 2012, the Waratahs finished third in the Australian conference with four wins and 12 losses. www.watoday.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.smh.com.au
- [● 3 SOURCES] Michael Cheika will return to coach the Waratahs for the second time in his career. www.watoday.com.au · www.brisbanetimes.com.au · www.smh.com.au