Wallabies coach-in-waiting Les Kiss has locked in a major piece of his Rugby World Cup jigsaw puzzle with the appointment of Scott McLeod as his defence coach for the next three years.
McLeod will replace Laurie Fisher in that role when Kiss takes the reins from Joe Schmidt ahead of the August 8 Test against Japan.
Fisher has been reassigned to a “consultancy role.”
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Assistant coach Scott McLeod talks to Will Jordan during an All Blacks training session at Hutt Recreation Ground. Getty
McLeod, 53, was a member of the All Blacks coaching staff at the last two World Cups, serving under Steve Hansen and Ian Foster and alongside the likes of Mike Cron and Schmidt.
He will join the Wallabies ahead of the Test against Japan, which will mark Les Kiss’ first game in the role of head coach.
Born in Brisbane, McLeod played 10 Tests for the All Blacks in the centres before embarking on a coaching career.
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Scott McLeod of New Zealand charges forward during a Bledisloe Cup match against Australia. Getty
He is currently working in Japan with the Kubota Spears under Frans Ludeke.
“I am very excited to return to international rugby, especially to join up with Les and the team to build on the foundations that have been put in place,” McLeod said.
“There is a lot of excitement building within Rugby Australia and I am really committed to doing my part. I am looking forward to connecting with RA, the players and everyone who is invested in this team.”
RA director of high performance Peter Horne spoke highly of McLeod’s qualities.
“On behalf of the Wallabies group, we are delighted to bring a coach of Scott’s experience and character into our national environment ahead of an important period for the squad,” Horne said.
“Les Kiss and I have had productive discussions with Scott over the last few months and we could see the value he would bring to the Wallabies coaching team and management as a whole.
Assistant coach Laurie Fisher during an Australia media conference. Getty
“From the Highlanders’ first Super Rugby title in 2015 to the most recent Rugby World Cup final, Scott’s resume and reputation are of the highest calibre and I am confident he will make a positive impact on the Wallabies.
“Scott has a great understanding of the environment and standards Joe Schmidt has driven since joining the Wallabies, having coached alongside him with the All Blacks, and will provide great support to Les as he transitions into the head coach position.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to Laurie Fisher for his outstanding service to Australian rugby, which will continue in a consultancy capacity moving forward. ‘Lord’ is a much-loved and respected figure in our game and we are extremely pleased he will continue with us leading in to next year’s home next year’s home Rugby World Cup.”