Rugby World: Exciting Developments in French Rugby, International Coach Race Heats Up
The rugby landscape in France and internationally is buzzing with activity as teams and national federations engage in a series of high-profile transfers and coaching appointments. This article explores the latest moves, focusing on Racing 92’s pursuit of Michael Cheika, the race for Bordeaux’s Carlu Sadie, and several other key developments.
Racing 92’s Pursuit of Michael Cheika
Racing 92 has emerged as a surprising contender in the hunt for former Australia and Argentina national team coach Michael Cheika. At the age of 57, Cheika is leaving Leicester Tigers at the end of the current season. Despite his recent stint with Stade Francais between 2010 and 2012, where he faced bitter rivals Racing 92, Cheika’s credentials continue to attract interest from top European clubs.
Recent reports suggest that Racing has been in talks with Cheika, who spent the past two years at Leicester Tigers. His CV has been circulating at the club’s cutting-edge facilities at Plessis Robinson, indicating serious interest from management. Meanwhile, Racing seeks a permanent replacement for former head coach Stuart Lancaster. This search is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the team’s position in the Top 14 and European competitions.
Interestingly, Racing’s main competition for Cheika could arise from within their fold. Karim Ghezal, a former Racing lock turned head coach of Lyon, is also in the mix. With recent team changes, Ghezal’s experience and local knowledge make him an attractive internal candidate.
Bordeaux’s Efforts to Retain Carlu Sadie
Another noteworthy development comes from Bordeaux, where there are advanced talks to retain South African tight-head prop Carlu Sadie. Sadie, who will reach the end of his contract with Bordeaux at the end of this season, has been considered for a move back to South Africa with the Bulls.
At 27, Sadie boasts an illustrious career, having represented the Stormers, the Lions, Stade Francais, and the Sharks. For Bordeaux, Sadie has been a key player, starting 13 of the 15 games he featured in during the recent campaign. Due to his importance, Bordeaux aims to keep Sadie at the Stade Chaban-Delmas for the next two years, though a compensation agreement with the Bulls remains a necessary step.
International Scene: Australia Coaching Race
Turning to international news, the competition to succeed Joe Schmidt as Australia’s head coach is heating up. Schmidt will stand down after the team’s final test against New Zealand in October, leaving the position open. The frontrunners for the role are Les Kiss of Queensland Reds and Dan McKellar of NSW Waratahs, both previous coaches of British Premiership clubs.
Les Kiss, formerly of London Irish and Ulster, and Dan McKellar, who recently led Leicester Tigers, are seen as the clear favorites. Rugby Australia has indicated that they will also consider candidates from abroad, but local expertise is currently favored. Ex-Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham also has some backing, though he is less likely to emerge as a frontrunner.
Gloucester Strengthens Squad: Jamal Ford-Robinson and Danilo Fischetti
Gloucester Hive rugby continues to grow with new signings. The club has secured a new deal with their talented prop, Jamal Ford-Robinson, who is capable of playing on either side of the front row. At 27, Ford-Robinson has over 100 games for Gloucester and has recently held talks with club management.
In addition to Ford-Robinson, Gloucester has signed up Italian international Danilo Fischetti, who recently played for Zebre in the Rugby Championship. At 27, Fischetti moves to Gloucester, starting his new contract in July after his current stint with Zebre ends.
Handre Pollard’s Future Uncertain: Suntory Sungoliath in the Running
Leicester Tigers are preparing for another significant loss, this time in the form of South African All-Blacks fly-half Handre Pollard. Pollard, who recently criss-crossed through international and club rugby, with stints in South Africa, Japan, and the UK, will be seeking his next challenge post-2023.
Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath seems to be in the lead for Pollard’s signature. His contract with Leicester expires at the end of this season, and the Tigers have shown little interest in extending his stay. After failing to secure Owen Farrell’s return following his time with the French national team, the Tigers are resigned to losing a key player.
Saracens Releases Kapeli Pifeleti to Provence Rugby
Saracens have released US Eagles hooker Kapeli Pifeleti, who will now play for Pro D2 team Provence Rugby. The 25-year-old hooker, who played 49 matches for Saracens after joining their academy, has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract with the team.
With Jamie George and Theo Dan already leading their hooker resources, Mark McCall had made the decision to release Pifeleti. His move could see him making his debut for Provence Rugby against Stade Montois on Thursday evening, marking a new chapter in his career.
Lyon Releases Fletcher Smith
Lyon has released New Zealand fly-half Fletcher Smith from his remaining six-month contract with the club. Smith, who can also play full-back, is set to either return home or make another move in Japan’s Rugby League One.
During his three-year stint at Lyon from 2020, Smith was a key player, scoring 74 points in 25 appearances. His relationship with team management has apparently come to an end, setting the stage for what could be an exciting chapter in his career.
Niccolo and Lorenzo Cannone Moving to the UK?
The final exciting development comes from Italian rugby. Reports from Italian media suggest that Nemesis twins Niccolo and Lorenzo Cannone will be moving to the UK this summer. Lorenzo, now 24, is expected to face Wales at the end of this weekend,力争 his 25th international cap.
Niccolo, who turns 26 this year, is equally as highly regarded, having earned 85 caps for Italy to date. With the twins set to bring their skills to English rugby, the UK could witness one of the most exciting transfers in recent times.
With exciting developments in French and international rugby, fans are in for a treat in the coming weeks and months. From their pursuit of talented coaches and players to significant personnel changes, the sport continues to evolve, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
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