The Latest On Joe Schmidt’s Irish Future

Joe Schmidt is yet to sign an extension on his current deal as Ireland head coach.

The Kiwi has less than a year to run on his current deal and recently said he would make a decision following Ireland’s tour of South Africa. The bad news however is we’re still no closer to an announcement despite the tour now being over.

Schmidt has previously started that the decision is out of his hands as he awaits news on the health of his son, who suffers from a medical condition that may force the Ireland boss into a move home. In the wake of this another top Super Rugby side has made their interest public.

Having already been linked to The Highlanders – Super Rugby champions in 2015 – Schmidt is now on The Chiefs’ radar. Their chief executive, Andrew Flexman told Stuff:

“Joe is definitely a guy we’d be interested in having a discussion with.

“I’ve been made aware of the fact there’s the potential for him to look at moving home next year and there’s been some attention around the Highlanders having some interest in him.

“If he was to return, given his pedigree and personal circumstances and the fact he’s coached in the Bay of Plenty, he’s certainly a guy we’d love to talk to.

“Given what he’s achieved in his coaching career if we are looking to appoint a new head coach then he’d be an obvious candidate.”