New Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt earns praise from All Blacks boss Scott Robertson, who expresses confidence in Australia’s Bledisloe Cup prospects under his compatriot.

Rugby Australia last week announced that Schmidt had agreed a deal to coach the Wallabies until at least the end of the British & Irish Lions Series in 2025.

The former Ireland coach is the latest in a line of New Zealanders to take on the job, following Robbie Deans and, most recently, Dave Rennie.

Robertson, who took over from Ian Foster after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, lauds Schmidt’s impressive CV and experience, emphasising that Schmidt is a “great pair of hands” for Australia.

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Speaking to Stan Sport at the Australian Open on Tuesday, Robertson highlights Schmidt’s clarity and rugby expertise, stating, “There’s no outs. You’ll know where you need to be on the field and know what the expectations are of you.

“He’s a great rugby mind. He’ll be clear.”

Despite recent World Cup disparities, Robertson anticipates a competitive challenge from the Wallabies in the 2024 Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup.

“It comes down to the passion on both sides, it’s really clear every time you see it played,” he added. “The importance on the night, it’s really critical, doesn’t matter what form.”

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