In an exciting turn of events, former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has been appointed as the new head coach for the Wallabies by Rugby Australia. Schmidt, who previously coached Ireland from 2013 to 2019, boasts an impressive track record, including winning the Six Nations and being recognized as the World Rugby coach of the year in 2018. Prior to his stint with Ireland, Schmidt enjoyed great success with Leinster, winning multiple trophies.
The 58-year-old coach will now face off against Andy Farrell, who took over as Ireland coach following Schmidt's departure, when the British and Irish Lions return next year under Farrell's direction. This clash between the two experienced coaches is sure to add an extra layer of excitement to the highly anticipated Lions tour in 2025.
Schmidt, who most recently served as an assistant coach for the All Blacks in 2022, including their runners-up finish in the World Cup, has signed a two-year deal with Australia. He takes over from former England coach Eddie Jones, who left the role after the World Cup.
Rugby Australia's chief, Phil Waugh, highlighted Schmidt's coaching background and experience as significant factors in his appointment. Waugh explained that Schmidt's time with Ireland and New Zealand, two highly successful and aligned rugby nations, will undoubtedly prove valuable as Australia looks to build a unified rugby system. Schmidt's global view of the game, gained from his experience in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, puts Australia in a strong position as they prepare for the 2025 British and Irish Lions Tour.
Excited about his new role, Schmidt expressed his keenness to help the Wallabies forge a way forward after a challenging period for Australian rugby. Recognizing the upcoming opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, including the Test matches against Wales and the British and Irish Lions Tour, Schmidt believes that these experiences will invigorate both players and staff.
It's no secret that the Wallabies have faced difficulties in recent years, including their failure to progress beyond the group stage in the World Cup and a string of less-than-impressive results, winning just three of their last ten matches. Schmidt's appointment brings renewed hope and a sense of direction as the Wallabies seek to reclaim their former glory on the international rugby stage.
In addition to this coaching announcement, Sky Sports has exciting news for rugby fans. They have secured the exclusive rights to broadcast the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia. This partnership marks the eighth consecutive Lions Tour broadcasted by Sky Sports, dating back to the iconic 1997 series win over South Africa.
The Lions, who triumphed in their last visit to Australia in 2013 with a thrilling 2-1 series win, will be determined to replicate that success. Following a challenging tour of South Africa impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, the Lions aim to secure another series win as they kick off the first Test at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium.
The tour will feature a total of nine games played across various locations in Australia. The Lions' journey begins against the Western Force in Perth on June 28, 2025. They will then face challenging matches against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane on July 2, the Waratahs in Sydney on July 5, and the Brumbies in Canberra on July 9. An intriguing encounter against an Invitational Australia & New Zealand side awaits the Lions in Adelaide on July 12, followed by a match against the Rebels in Melbourne on July 22.
The pivotal first Test against the Wallabies will take place in Brisbane on July 19, with the second Test scheduled at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 26. The tour will culminate with the final Test at the Accor Stadium in Sydney on August 2.
Adding to the excitement, the Lions will also embark on a historic visit to Ireland as they take on Argentina in a warm-up fixture in June 2025. This match will be broadcasted live on Sky Sports, providing fans with an opportunity to witness the Lions' preparation before they embark on their tour of Australia.
With Joe Schmidt's appointment as the new head coach of the Wallabies and Sky Sports securing the broadcasting rights for the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour, rugby enthusiasts have much to look forward to in the coming years. Australian rugby aims to rebuild and excel under Schmidt's guidance, while the Lions will be determined to make their mark in Australia once again. Exciting times lie ahead for the world of rugby.
