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Stephen Larkham and Nathan Grey named Wallabies' assistant coaches

27th February, 2015
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Stephen Larkham was a natural on the field - but can he coach? (Image: AJF Photography)
27th February, 2015
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Stephen Larkham and Nathan Grey will act as assistant coaches of the Wallabies under Michael Cheika in the 2015 Test season.

Grey is the current defensive coach of the Waratahs, while Larkham is the coach of the Brumbies, and both will fulfil their duties there before working with the national squad for the Rugby Championship and Rugby World Cup.

Grey worked with the Wallabies when Cheika took over last year and the contracts of Nick Scrivener and Jim McKay were terminated.

Both the Brumbies and Waratahs confirmed the roles wouldn’t affect either coaches’ role with the franchise in terms of their existing deals.

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika is also head coach of the Waratahs for the 2015 season.

Michael Cheika said the changes promised success for the team in 2015.

“At this level, it’s crucial that you have the best people and best possible high-performance program in place if you are going to deliver winning performances for the Wallabies,” Cheika said.

“I am confident we enter 2015 with an experienced and strong coaching and off-field team and I welcome the new appointments.

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“Stephen is a coach and former player with incredible credentials who has a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in this environment, including playing an important role as a player for Australia in three Rugby World Cup campaigns.

“Nathan has done a remarkable job during his time in Super Rugby and his coaching was extremely well received by the entire Wallabies squad during last year’s Spring Tour, and is a big driver in the standards and culture within the team, which will be important.”

Dean Benton also returns to the coaching fold in Australian Rugby, and according to the release “will play a critical role in the players’ preparation in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup.” His role was not specified.

Simon Roberts has been appointed Wallabies team operations manager while Patrick Molihan will act as the team manager.

“We’ve also created additional roles and selected a team of experienced professionals in Dean, Simon and Patrick to complement each other and deliver what the Wallabies need both on and off the field,” Cheika said.

“I’m confident a combination of all these elements will help deliver the best possible environment to help the players perform.”

Following the loss of scrum coach Andrew Blades, the ARU are still searching for a set piece coach.

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“Just as he did as a player over 30 times, Andrew has represented Australian Rugby and the Wallabies with professionalism, integrity and a genuine passion for the game.

“I’d like to thank Andrew Blades for his service in the past three years. We’re continuing our search for a new Set Piece/Forwards Coach, with an announcement to be made in due course.”

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