Former Wallabies boss Michael Cheika is the latest name to be linked with a move to the Gallagher Premiership.
According to a report in this weekend’s The Rugby Paper, the highly-rated 53-year-old, who guided Australia to the 2015 World Cup final, is the surprise name on the Gloucester’s shortlist to replace departing Johann Ackermann.
The 49-year-old, who is leaving the club to join Japanese side NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes, spent three years with the Cherry and Whites, taking them to the final of the European Challenge Cup in his first season.
A successful businessman in his own right before taking up his first coaching role with Padova (Italy) in 1999, Cheika has coached all over the world including at some of the biggest Clubs in Europe.
His most notable success abroad came at Leinster, whom he coached from 2005-2009, where led the Irish side to the European title in 2009.
Michael Cheika the latest name to be linked to the Gloucester job. That would be some statement! #glawsfamily
— Rob Iles (@RobSportsTwit) June 14, 2020
He then took over Stade Francais in the French Top 14 competition from 2010 until he announced that he would return home to take the helm at the New South Wales Waratahs.
Other contenders for the job include current Gloucester skills coach Rory Teague and Rob Howley,
The former Wales coach was the early favourite to land the role when his ban for placing bets on more than 1,000 rugby matches over four years in breach of the game’s regulations finishes next month.
Ranking All 12 Gallagher Premiership Grounds Based on Fan Atmosphere
The Gallagher Premiership has long been recognised as the most watched rugby league in the world, credited for incredible excitement and amazing atmosphere at the grounds of the 12 teams that make up the English top flight. But which ground enjoys the best atmosphere?
RUCK has explored the data found from a recent survey of 10,000 supporters, where users rated the arenas they have attended from 1 to 5 stars, to rank all 12 clubs in the division.
12. AJ Bell Stadium – Sale Sharks 2*
In last position are the Sharks. Traffic chaos is the only guarantee when travelling to the AJ Bell Stadium. They’ll be hopeful of creating a much better atmosphere when they leave Salford to return to Sale in the near future.
11. Madejski Stadium – London Irish 2*
The Madejski Stadium as flashy as it is, fails to conjure up a good atmosphere according to the data found. It just feel a bit soulless, and isn’t even in London. No wonder Exiles supporters are excited for their move to Brentford for next season.
10. Allianz Park – Saracens 2.5*
he capacity is too small and three of the stands are not great. You’re never going to create a brilliant atmosphere in a former athletics stadium. However, they have great beer and sausage rolls.
9. Ricoh Arena – Wasps 2.5*
The indoor Fan Village is excellent, hotel good value for money, and Casino offers good food until late at night. The atmosphere when it’s busy can also be very good, but that isn’t too often…
