Australia have been forced to head to market and look for their fifth head coach in six years after Joe Schmidt decided to walk away from the top job towards the end of the year. So, who will replace him?

Michael Cheika met with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh on Tuesday, raising speculation the former Australia boss is among candidates to succeed Joe Schmidt at the helm of the Wallabies.

Former Leinster head coach Michael Cheika met with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh on Tuesday, raising speculation the former Australia boss is among candidates to succeed Joe Schmidt at the helm of the Wallabies.

Joe Schmidt has agreed to continue as head coach of the Wallabies until after the 2025 Rugby Championship to allow Rugby Australia time to recruit a replacement.

Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt will step down at the end of this year’s Rugby Championship, with Australia announcing Thursday they would immediately begin the search for his successor. The 59-year-old New Zealander’s original contract had been due to expire at the end of the British and Irish Lions tour in early August.

Michael Cheika's meeting with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh has fueled speculation about him potentially succeeding Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach. Cheika, who previously coached Australia and now coaches Leicester Tigers,

Ireland legend and La Rochelle boss Ronan O'Gara has expressed his interest in becoming the next Wallabies boss after Joe Schmidt's future was confirmed.

Michael Cheika remains in the mix to return for a second stint as Wallabies coach after meeting with Rugby Australia's boss.