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Former Wallabies boss gets NRL coaching gig
Melissa Woods, AAP • October 1st, 2025 3:57 pm
Ex-Wallabies and Argentina coach Michael Cheika will assist the Roosters in 2026 | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has taken another step towards an NRL head coach role by taking on a full-time assistant position with the Sydney Roosters.
Cheika boasts an extensive resume in rugby union, overseeing the Australian team between 2014 and 2019, winning World Rugby's coach of the year after leading the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final.
He has also been the national coach of Argentina as well as numerous club roles including steering the NSW Waratahs to the Super Rugby title in 2014.
But Cheika's coaching in the 13-a-side game has been limited to Lebanon's World Cup campaign in 2021 and the upcoming tournament in 2026, and a consultancy role with the Roosters in 2020.
He was linked to the Newcastle coaching vacancy but with Roosters assistant Justin Holbrook getting that position, a position opened up with the Tricolours.
Cheika will work with the forwards and support coaches throughout the club's pathway system.
Head coach Trent Robinson, a long-time friend, said Cheika would offer the club at different perspective.
"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 experience in rugby brings a different perspective that will inspire and test our players and coaches."
Michael Cheika chats with Trent Robinson at a combined Waratahs-Roosters training session in 2014 | Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP
Cheika will begin his new role in November when the Roosters kick-off their pre-season.
With league roots, he has previously spoken of his desire to coach at the highest level, following former Wallabies mentor Alan Jones who coached Balmain between 1991 to 1993, with the club struggling for success during his time at the helm.
The Roosters finished this season eighth on the ladder and were knocked out by Cronulla in week one of the finals.
Former Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase has impressed since making his NRL debut in round 27 last season but has told the club he intends returning to rugby union ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
