Wallabies hire former All Blacks defence coach Scott McLeod for 3 years

The Wallabies have hired Scott McLeod, who coached the All Blacks for 90 Tests, as their new defence coach for three years. This is a big change for the team.
By Newsroom | Sports, Rugby |

Scott McLeod, a figure previously integral to the 'All Blacks' defensive structure, has been appointed as the new defence coach for the Wallabies. The move, which sees McLeod sign a three-year contract, signifies a significant addition to the coaching staff under incoming head coach Les Kiss. He is expected to join the team before their first match under Kiss, scheduled for August 8 against Japan.

Wallabies turn to former All Blacks defensive guru to bolster coaching staff - 1

McLeod's prior experience includes extensive work with the All Blacks, serving as an assistant coach for approximately 90 Tests and participating in the last two World Cups. He notably stepped into the role previously held by defensive mastermind Wayne Smith. McLeod’s responsibilities will include fortifying the Wallabies' defence, a unit that conceded around 28 points per game last year, a figure considerably higher than that of top-ranked South Africa.

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Wallabies turn to former All Blacks defensive guru to bolster coaching staff - 2

The appointment signals a strategic reinforcement of the Wallabies' defensive capabilities, drawing on established expertise from a rival national team.

Wallabies turn to former All Blacks defensive guru to bolster coaching staff - 3

Current assistant Laurie Fisher will transition to a consultancy role, intended to maintain continuity within the Australian high-performance system. McLeod's arrival is part of a broader shift in the coaching setup, with Joe Schmidt set to conclude his tenure as interim head coach after the July Tests against Ireland, France, and Italy, handing over to Kiss.

Wallabies turn to former All Blacks defensive guru to bolster coaching staff - 4

Other coaching positions, including those for attack and scrum coaches, remain to be definitively filled. Tom Donnelly, another former All Black, is expected to continue in his role as lineout coach. McLeod arrives from the Kubota Spears in Japan's Top League, where he has been serving as a defence coach.

McLeod's playing career also saw him represent the All Blacks in 10 Tests as a centre, and he played for the Chiefs in Super Rugby. His coaching journey began in New Zealand's domestic competition before moving through the Highlanders to the national team. Born in Brisbane, McLeod was raised in New Zealand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is the new defence coach for the Wallabies and how long is his contract?
Scott McLeod, who used to be an assistant coach for the All Blacks, is the new defence coach for the Wallabies. He has signed a contract for three years.
Q: When will Scott McLeod start working with the Wallabies?
Scott McLeod is expected to join the Wallabies before their first game under new head coach Les Kiss. This game is on August 8 against Japan.
Q: What experience does Scott McLeod bring to the Wallabies?
Scott McLeod coached the All Blacks for about 90 Tests and was part of the last two World Cups. He is known for his work on defence.
Q: Why did the Wallabies hire a new defence coach?
The Wallabies defence was not as strong as other top teams, letting in about 28 points per game last year. McLeod's job is to make the defence better.
Q: What happens to Laurie Fisher?
Laurie Fisher, who was an assistant coach, will now work as a consultant. This is to help keep things steady in the Australian high-performance system.