‘We’ve had a rough trot’: Who is the coach to turn the Waratahs around?

The Waratahs, New South Wales' professional rugby union team in Australia's Super Rugby competition, endured a challenging 2023 season. With only three wins and 13 losses, they finished last in the Australian conference and 15th out of 18 teams overall. This disappointing performance led to widespread calls for change within the organization.

As the team prepares for the upcoming recruitment process for a new head coach, several potential candidates have emerged as strong contenders to revive the Waratahs' fortunes.

1. Rob Penney (Current Forwards Coach, Crusaders): Rob Penney has been an integral part of the successful Crusaders coaching team since 2019. He previously coached the Waratahs between 2012 and 2015, leading them to two Super Rugby finals in 2013 and 2014. Penney's expertise in forwards play and his experience with the Waratahs could make him an attractive choice for the team's new head coach.

2. Dave Rennie (Current Head Coach, Glasgow Warriors): Dave Rennie has been the head coach of Scottish side Glasgow Warriors since 2017. Prior to that, he spent five years as the Chiefs' head coach in New Zealand's Super Rugby competition, where he led them to two finals in 2012 and 2013. Rennie's experience in both hemispheres and his proven track record in developing successful teams make him an attractive candidate for the Waratahs.

3. Jason Gilmore (Assistant Coach, Brumbies): Jason Gilmore has been an assistant coach with the Brumbies since 2018. He previously spent five years as an assistant coach with the Crusaders and was part of their coaching team during their 2015 Super Rugby title win. Gilmore's experience working under successful coaches and his knowledge of New Zealand rugby could make him an appealing choice for the Waratahs.

4. Simon Cron (Assistant Coach, Queensland Reds): Simon Cron has been an assistant coach with the Queensland Reds since 2018. He previously spent five years as an assistant coach with the Melbourne Rebels and was part of their coaching team during their 2011 Super Rugby final appearance. Cron's experience in Australian rugby and his ability to help develop young talent could make him an attractive candidate for the Waratahs.

5. Laurie Fisher (Former Assistant Coach, All Blacks): Laurie Fisher spent five years as an assistant coach with the All Blacks between 2012 and 2016. He previously coached the Hurricanes in Super Rugby between 2008 and 2011, leading them to the 2011 title. Fisher's experience working with world-class rugby talent and his proven track record in winning titles make him an appealing choice for the Waratahs.

These are just a few of the potential candidates being considered by the Waratahs for their new head coaching role. Each brings unique experiences and strengths that could help the team bounce back from their disappointing 2023 season. Ultimately, the decision will depend on various factors, including the team's specific needs and the candidate's fit within the organization.