The chief executive of New Zealand Rugby says Joe Schmidt is a contender to become the All Blacks head coach in 2019.
Current head coach Steve Hansen is expected to step down after the World Cup in Japan that year, the same time Schmidt’s contract expires with Ireland.
CEO Steve Tew has confirmed they “would like to have Joe back”, and also refused to rule out the prospect of Lions head coach Warren Gatland taking on the role.
Both Ireland and the Lions are in action tomorrow, with Joe Schmidt’s side facing the USA from 10pm, and the Lions taking on the Crusaders at 8.35am.
