Aussies may ask Cheikato take reins

Seven years ago many in Ireland were left to wonder if Michael Cheika had taken Leinster as far as he could, but now the Australian bookies have made up their mind that he should succeed Ewen McKenzie as Wallabies head coach.

Last Saturday the Aussies lost in heart-breaking last-minute fashion to New Zealand that will have drawn much empathy from Irish rugby supporters.

Afterwards McKenzie resigned after just a year in charge, but said his decision had been made prior to the game due to character assassination.

As for Cheika, who took the Waratahs to their first Super Rugby title a few months ago, back in November 2007 his Leinster side had just been pummelled 33-6 by Toulouse and there was speculation that he would not be offered a new contract.

History tells us that not only did Cheika ink a new deal but he brought Leinster to the promised land in 2009 when they won their first European Cup.