Former England and Racing 92 boss Stuart Lancaster has emerged as a strong candidate to replace Australia head coach Joe Schmidt.
According to The Roar, the 55-year-old recently held talks with a Rugby Australia official for the soon-to-be vacant position. Schmidt will step down after the 2025 Rugby Championship.
Lancaster, who left Racing 92 earlier this year, has close ties to Schmidt from their time in Ireland – Schmidt coaching the national side while Lancaster revived Leinster from 2016.
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While Reds coach Les Kiss remains the front-runner, his contract with the Super Rugby outfit runs until 2026, complicating negotiations. Other domestic options, such as Dan McKellar and Stephen Larkham, face similar hurdles.
With Michael Cheika’s name linked to Wales, Lancaster’s availability could make him an attractive alternative for RA.
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