Joe Schmidt will be even more in demand after Saturday’s victory over the Springboks.
Ireland recorded a historic 26-20 victory over South Africa in Cape Town, the first time they’ve beaten South Africa in their own back yard, despite playing almost an hour with 14 men after CJ Stander saw red.
Ireland coach Schmidt has a year to go on his current deal, and according to reports in New Zealand, club side Highlanders are pursuing him.
According to the New Zealand Herald, Highlanders CEO Roger Clark has contacted Schmidt about taking over at the side, and returning to his native country, following the expiration of his current deal with Ireland.
“Clark said they had called the former Blues assistant coach and that his potential comeback to New Zealand could provide him with an opportunity to take the All Blacks head coach job when Steve Hansen departs.
“With Tony Brown signing a one-year contract with the Highlanders for next season, and Hansen rumored to be staying with the All Blacks until 2019, Clark said it was a good opportunity for Schmidt to get involved with Super Rugby and put his name forward for the All Blacks job.”
Schmidt has won two Six Nations titles since becoming coach in 2013.
