"Leading candidate" - Joe Schmidt wants to return to international rugby in head coach role

Schmidt, a recent member of Ian Foster's coaching staff for the All Blacks, witnessed a narrow 11-12 defeat to the Springboks in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final.

Following the World Cup, changes ensued in the coaching landscape, with Scott Robertson succeeding Foster as the head coach of New Zealand. Simultaneously, Schmidt has stepped down from his role as assistant coach, propelling him into the spotlight as one of the most sought-after coaching talents.

The highly accomplished New Zealander boasts an impressive coaching record, having led Ireland in both the 2015 and 2019 global tournaments. Schmidt's success extends beyond international rugby, having guided Leinster to the summit of European rugby.

Amidst speculation and keen interest, Schmidt's name continues to circulate in connection with various coaching opportunities, a testament to his influential role in the All Blacks' resurgence since joining Foster's backroom team in July 2022.

The rugby world eagerly awaits the next chapter in Joe Schmidt's coaching journey.

A veteran of four World Cups, Brian O’Driscoll made a name for himself on the World Stage for his unwavering consistency in defence and dazzling skills in attack.

O’Driscoll is the all-time Irish try scorer and has led his country more times than any other player.

Wilkinson said: “The ability to change the game in a second, a heartbeat, with his movement, with his skill, his game reading but also his leadership.”

Renowned for his exceptional leadership and skill, McCaw led the team to two Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as an iconic figure in the sport.

Wilkinson said: “The guy is quite a remarkable rugby legend and deserves to be so. No Rugby World cup team would be complete without him.”

Bakkies Botha made his World Cup debut in 2003, scoring three tries for South Africa.

His second Rugby World Cup appearance followed in 2007 where he played a pivotal role in the Springboks' charge to the sport's biggest prize.

Wilkinson said: “Someone incredibly fierce but very very down to earth” and “at times he’s exactly what a team needs,” according to Wilkinson.

Wilkinson wrote: “A guy that knew how to win, knew how to play the game. His body language suggested he didn’t really know how to fail or what mistakes were, what under performance was.”

One of the most recognisable characters in World Rugby and a man who sparked fear in the eyes of opposition defences.

Jonah Lomu burst on to the scene at the 1995 with his eye catching performances and devastating runs, most recognisably against England in the 1995 tournament, where he steamrollered his way to 4 tries.

Lomu scored seven tries during the 1995 World Cup and added a further eight in 1999, making him the top try scorer of the tournament.

Wilkinson wrote: “The guy is quite a remarkable rugby legend and deserves to be so. No toughest opponents list would be complete without him.”

There have been some unforgettable derby matches throughout rugby history, and we've laid down the challenge for you to name 20 of the best!

We've given you the name of the derby, or the trophy which the side's battle over. We've also been generous enough to give you the names of one of the competing sides, so all you have to do is name the other team that competes in the fixture.

You have five minutes to name the 20 teams, good luck!

Your time starts... now!