Even for a coach as experienced as Joe Schmidt, international rugby represents a whole new canvass for the affable New Zealander.

After two tours and no games in New Zealand, Mike Sherry finally got his first cap last weekend and now he is in line to add another to his collection in Toronto.

Heyneke Meyer is happy for Richardt Strauss but the Springbok coach admits that the rising tide of South African players into the arms of covetous European unions is a serious cause for concern.

Having ruled out any imminent possibility of succeeding Declan Kidney at Ireland, Leinster head coach Joe Schmidt signed a one-year contract extension that will see the New Zealander remain with the European champions until the end of the 2013/’14 campaign.

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt has left the door ajar on coaching Ireland in the future — but says his current job “is pretty fulfilling and all-encompassing”.

THE IRFU announced contract extensions for Declan Kidney and three of his management team yesterday, which will see them remain in charge of the Irish team until the end of the 2012-13 season which coincides with the next British and Irish Lions Tour.

SERIAL offenders and even cheats according to Scottish coach Andy Robinson.