Les Kiss Set to Become Wallabies Head Coach After Joe Schmidt’s Departure

Les Kiss is set to make the move from the Queensland Reds to become the new head coach of the Australian Wallabies after current coach Joe Schmidt steps down in mid-2026. Kiss, a former Springbok assistant coach, will oversee the Wallabies as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Kiss’s Journey to the Wallabies

Kiss, 60, has built a remarkable career in rugby. Most notably, he served as the Springboks’ defence coach in 2000 under Harry Viljoen. Though he started with a rugby league background, Kiss quickly established himself as a key figure in the world of rugby union.

After his time with the Springboks, Kiss took on roles as director of rugby at Ulster, head coach of London Irish, and assistant coach to the Irish national team. His expertise and leadership experience make him a strong candidate to take charge of the Wallabies.

Joe Schmidt’s Transition

Joe Schmidt, who has been leading the Wallabies since 2023, will guide the team through important fixtures, including the British and Irish Lions tour, before stepping down. Schmidt’s leadership has been crucial in shaping the Wallabies’ future, but it’s now time for Kiss to take the reins.

Schmidt’s final season will include high-profile matches, giving Kiss ample time to transition into his new role and start preparing for the challenge of coaching Australia as they look ahead to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Kiss’s Key Responsibilities Ahead of 2027

As Wallabies head coach, Kiss will have just over a year before Australia hosts the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The task ahead is a tough one, with the Springboks eyeing a third consecutive World Cup win after victories in 2019 and 2023. Kiss will have to prepare his team to compete at the highest level against the best in the world.

While Kiss may be a familiar name to South African rugby fans, his leadership in Australia will be closely watched. His extensive coaching experience, including his time in charge of the Queensland Reds, will be crucial as he aims to steer the Wallabies to success on the world stage.

What This Means for Rugby Australia

The appointment of Kiss signals a new chapter for Rugby Australia as they focus on building a team capable of competing at the highest level. With the 2027 Rugby World Cup fast approaching, Kiss’s experience in developing winning teams will be a key asset in ensuring Australia’s competitiveness.

Les Kiss’s appointment as Wallabies head coach marks a new era for Australian rugby. With years of coaching experience under his belt and a deep understanding of the game, he is well-equipped to lead the team towards success in 2027. Rugby fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating his transition into the role.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com