Jono Gibbes: The man who helped Leinster make the breakthrough - and now planning their downfall

Now, there are any amount of variables that had to align for that to happen, but the fact is that Gibbes’ role in Leinster’s transformation from nearly-men to perennial champions has rarely received the attention it merits.

La Rochelle's director of rugby Jono Gibbes:  His role in Leinster’s transformation from nearly-men to perennial champions has rarely received the attention it merits. Picture: Getty Images

History may be written by the victors but not all of them put pen to paper. It was Michael Cheika whose name was above the door when Leinster won their first Heineken Cup in 2009. Joe Schmidt was the man centre stage when they followed it up with back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012.

Consider this, then. Leinster won their breakthrough title in Jono Gibbes’ first season as forwards coach and yet when people talk about a southern hemisphere catalyst for that success they invariably swoon over Rocky Elsom and his talismanic performances.