How 'student of coaching' Contepomi took unexpected path

Contepomi succeeded Cheika after the 2023 World Cup and has authored wins over the likes of New Zealand, South Africa and the British and Irish Lions as head of the coaching ticket.

Starting their second block of Nations Championship fixtures against Ireland in the Aviva Stadium on Friday offers the chance for another big scalp.

But he arrives back in Dublin amid reports, external he has ruled himself out of the succeeding Leo Cullen at Leinster following the conclusion of his current contract with Argentina following next year's World Cup.

Contepomi's Leinster connection, coupled with a coaching CV boasting Test rugby success, naturally led to the 49-year-old being touted as a leading option to replace his former team-mate in one of the premier jobs in club rugby.