Ex-Wallabies coach Cheika returns to Waratahs in Super Rugby

Former Australia coach Michael Cheika will take over at the Waratahs for the 2027 Super Rugby season, the team said on Wednesday.

Cheika previously coached the Waratahs to their first Super Rugby title in 2014 before moving into international rugby with the Wallabies from 2014 until 2019.

The 59-year-old was most recently coach of the Leicester Tigers, and held the Argentina job in 2022-2023.

"The Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me," Cheika said.

"It's my home state and I feel ready to return as their head coach ahead of an important year for the Waratahs and also for Australian rugby in the lead up to the home Rugby World Cup.

Michael Cheika is coming home 🏡

Having led the Waratahs to their maiden Super Rugby title in 2014, the internationally-renowned coach will return to the club as Head Coach for the 2027 season.

Read more at https://t.co/bWSaIpwj8t pic.twitter.com/2K7q0Kb4I2 — NSW Waratahs (@NSWWaratahs) August 19, 2026

"Being involved in the NSW squad that lifted the Super Rugby trophy in 2014 is something I will never forget, especially the passion and energy of our supporters.

"This is a new time, a different time and I am looking forward to being able to enjoy those same kinds of feelings and more with players, their families and all the fans in this new adventure."

Cheika said he wanted to make the Waratahs "a great place to play footy".

The Waratahs said Cheika had signed for the 2027 season with an option for 2028.

Cheika replaces Dan McKellar, who stood down in June.

The Waratahs finished eighth and missed the playoffs in the 2026 campaign.