Michael Cheika returns to NSW Waratahs, NRL plans on hold
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 7:56 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
Michael Cheika is set to return to the NSW Waratahs, marking a departure from his aspirations of coaching an NRL club. This decision comes after a period of speculation surrounding his future, with Cheika focusing on rugby rather than league for the next couple of years. The Waratahs will look to benefit from his experience as they seek improvement in upcoming seasons.
- •Michael Cheika poised to return to NSW Waratahs.
- •Plans to coach in NRL are now on hold for a few years.
- •Cheika aims to revitalize the Waratahs' prospects in rugby.
- 7:56 AMYahoo Sports — Michael Cheika to return as Waratahs head coach in Super Rugby
- 3:51 AMESPN Rugby — Cheika set for Tahs return with NRL dream on ice
"Michael Cheika is set to return as head coach of the New South Wales Waratahs a dozen years after guiding the Sydney-based franchise to its only Super Rugby title. The 59-year-old Cheika, who was Australia's head coach when the Wallabies reached the 2015 World Cup final in England, will start back at the Waratahs in November after coaching Lebanon at the Rugby League World Cup. “The Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me — it’s my home state and I feel ready to return as head coach ahead of an important year for the Waratahs and also for Australian rugby in the lead up to the home Rugby World Cup,” Cheika said.
"Michael Cheika is poised to complete a stunning return to NSW Waratahs, putting his ambitions of coaching an NRL club on hold -- at least for the next couple of years.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 19, 2026, 7:56 AMMichael Cheika to return as Waratahs head coach in Super Rugby
Michael Cheika is set to return as head coach of the New South Wales Waratahs a dozen years after guiding the Sydney-based franchise to its only Super Rugby title. The 59-year-old Cheika, who was Australia's head coach when the Wallabies reached the 2015 World Cup final in England, will start back at the Waratahs in November after coaching Lebanon at the Rugby League World Cup. “The Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me — it’s my home state and I feel ready to return as head coach ahead of an important year for the Waratahs and also for Australian rugby in the lead up to the home Rugby World Cup,” Cheika said.
- ESPN RugbyAug 18, 2026, 3:51 AMCheika set for Tahs return with NRL dream on ice
Michael Cheika is poised to complete a stunning return to NSW Waratahs, putting his ambitions of coaching an NRL club on hold -- at least for the next couple of years.
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