Wednesday Round-Up

Cheika hits big time: Michael Cheika has been named as the new head coach of the Wallabies, just days after the shock exit of Ewen McKenzie from his post. Cheika, who is currently contracted to Super Rugby outfit the Waratahs until the close of the 2015 season, will continue to work with the franchise until the end of his contract, meaning the former Leinster head coach will hold down two vital roles on both a domestic and international front for the coming year. Cheika, who has previously coached in Europe, including with giant clubs Leinster and Stade Francais, brings a wealth of experience to the role, and was the outstanding candidate according to Australian Rugby Union Chief Executive, Bill Pulver. Having led the Waratahs to their first ever Super Rugby title, Cheika brings a wealth of both confidence and experience to the role, with many of his ‘Tahs players vital cogs in the Wallabies’ wheel just 10 months out from a World Cup. Cheika will lead the Wallabies on their tour of Europe, as they take on the likes of Wales, France, Ireland, England and invitational outfit, the Barbarians.

Haskell struggling: London Wasps skipper James Haskell has been forced to stay in hospital for the past couple of days, as he struggles to overcome a viral infection. Ruled out of Wasps’ narrow European Champions Cup loss at the hands of Leinster in Dublin, Haskell was initially expected to be out of action for a day or two. However, following a distinct period of deterioration, Haskell was admitted to the local hospital by the club doctor, having displayed somewhat serious flu-like symptoms. Having undergone multiple tests carried out by the hospital staff, Haskell is believed to be suffering from a viral infection, but will remain in hospital for further observation, with the back rower expected to be discharged within the next couple of days. Elsewhere for Wasps, Andrea Masi will remain in London following a head collision during Saturday’s clash with Leinster, Masi was due to link up with the Italian squad for a brief three day training camp, but will now remain under the observation of Wasps’ team doctors in London.

Ryan Sheady