If you’ve ever gone on a J1, then you’ve probably had a summer job. You get a few shifts in a restaurant, maybe an ice cream parlour, so you can keep your bank account ticking over while you enjoy June, July and August.
New Zealander Kurt McQuilkin’s summer employment is a little more glamorous – Leinster defence coach. Fans of the province will remember how effective McQuilkin was in his previous stint in the role – Leinster had the best defence in the Heineken Cup when they won it for the first time in 2009.
Leinster’s defence has traditionally been one of the team’s strongest weapons but standards slipped this year. They allowed their second highest points-per-game average and tries-per-game average in the Pro12 era, something that was likely taken into account when Matt O’Connor left the club at the end of the season.
The Irish Times are reporting that McQuilkin will rejoin the province for July and August, but it could turn into a more permanent move when a new head coach is appointed.
Even if it does turn out to just be for two months, the knowledge that McQuilkin could pass onto the younger squad members – who will make up the bulk of the first-team during the World Cup period – would be invaluable.
During the European knockout stages in 2009, Leinster conceded just two tries in their three games, led by McQuilkin on the touchline and Rocky Elsom on the pitch.
Jono Gibbes was initially rumoured to be returning to Leinster as their new head coach but while he has ruled himself out of the role, at least fans can be happy that one of their key men from the glory years is returning to Dublin.
