The Latest On Joe Schmidt’s Ireland Future

Jamie Heaslip has urged coach Joe Schmidt to extend his contract with the national team until the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Schmidt is currently weighing up his options since his contract with the IRFU expires in June 2017. He had previously said he would make a decision on his future following the June tour to South Africa but almost two months have passed now since that series but still there has been no official confirmation of any decision. It’s well documented his son’s medical condition will have a huge factor on whether he stays with Ireland or not.

Schmidt is reportedly considering returning to his native New Zealand if he decides not to extend his contract, with Super Rugby franchises, the Highlanders and Chiefs, reportedly interested in his services.

Jamie Heaslip has worked under Schmidt at both provincial and international level and there’s no doubt he and his fellow Irish players want Schmidt to stay on.

“From a purely selfish point of view and for the team, I think everyone would love Joe to stay here,” Heaslip told The42.ie. “But, you know, things happen, things change and we’ll see where the cards fall.

“I would love it if Joe was here all the way through to the next World Cup, I think a lot of players would as well. I think a lot of players benefit under his tutelage in Ireland camp.”