LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Michael Cheika has made a significant move toward an NRL head coaching position by accepting a full-time assistant role with the Sydney Roosters men's team.
Cheika has a rich background in rugby union, having served as the coach of the Wallabies from 2014 to 2019.
He earned the distinction of World Rugby's coach of the year after guiding the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final.
In addition to his tenure with the Wallabies, Cheika was also the national coach for Argentina and held various club positions, including leading the NSW Waratahs to a Super Rugby title in 2014.
Most recently, he coached Leicester to the English Premiership final, where they narrowly lost 23-21 to Bath.
However, his experience in rugby league has been limited, having primarily been involved in Lebanon's 2022 World Cup campaign and a consultative role with the Roosters in 2020.
Although Cheika was considered for the Newcastle Knights coaching vacancy, that opportunity went to Roosters assistant Justin Holbrook, opening a space for Cheika within the Sydney Roosters' men's program.
In his new role, Cheika will be responsible for working with the forwards as well as supporting coaches throughout the club's development system.