Ex-Wallabies and Leicester Tigers boss Michael Cheika lands huge new coaching role

Wednesday, 01 October 2025 at 09:49

byTom Sansom

Former Wallabies and Argentina head coach Michael Cheika has taken on a new challenge, joining NRL powerhouse Sydney Roosters as an assistant coach, the club confirmed on Wednesday.

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Cheika, one of rugby’s most experienced and decorated coaches, will focus on the forwards, bringing his expertise to the Roosters’ pack ahead of the 2026 season. He is set to start in November, in time for the club’s pre-season preparations.

Sydney Roosters head coach Trent Robinson spoke highly of Cheika’s appointment:

“Michael and I have had a strong relationship for many years, and I've always admired the way he leads and challenges athletes. His experience in rugby brings a different perspective that will inspire and test our players and coaches. To have someone of his calibre join our programme is exciting, and I'm looking forward to getting started.”

Cheika’s coaching career spans more than a decade at the top of world rugby. He led the Australian Wallabies to the 2015 Rugby World Cup final, and has also coached Argentina, the NSW Waratahs, and Stade Français in France.

Since 2020, he has also been involved in rugby league, coaching the Lebanon national side. Most recently, Cheika was at the helm of Leicester Tigers, guiding them to the Premiership final before departing following their defeat to Bath in June.

His move to the Roosters represents a significant crossover from union to league, a transition Robinson believes will benefit his squad. Cheika’s rugby union experience, particularly his work with forward packs, is expected to bring new tactical insights, training methods, and high-performance strategies that could strengthen Sydney’s forwards in the NRL’s physically demanding competition.

For Cheika, the role is a fresh challenge and an opportunity to broaden his coaching portfolio. Known for his high-energy coaching style, tactical acumen, and ability to get the best out of elite athletes, he will now bring that approach to rugby league, a code he has already been involved with through Lebanon.

The Roosters, one of the NRL’s most successful clubs in recent years, are aiming to reinforce their forward pack and inject fresh ideas into their setup. Cheika’s addition is part of a wider strategy to combine local talent with global coaching expertise, ensuring Sydney remains competitive at the top level.

With Cheika on board, the Roosters are set to start pre-season with a new voice in the coaching room, blending rugby union’s tactical sophistication with league’s intensity. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this high-profile crossover influences the Roosters’ performance in 2026.