Michael Cheika recruits former NRL winner at Leicester

Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has recruited Eddie Jones’ assistant coach at Japan David Kidwell until the end of the season.

Cheika only has a matter of months left before he leaves Welford Road at the end of the current campaign, but has drafted in his former assistant at Argentina as the Tigers fight on two fronts in the Gallagher Premiership, where they are fourth currently, and the Investec Champions Cup, where they take on Glasgow Warriors in April in the round of 16.

The former NRL star has a diverse coaching background, having previously led New Zealand rugby league. As a player, he won an NRL title in 2012 with the Melbourne Storm.

Kidwell will team up with the Tigers next month ahead of the return to the Premiership, with the move being green-lit by Jones.

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“Not only is it an opportunity to enhance my coaching but also one to do at a big club and a successful club, that are looking to add to that success this season,” Kidwell said.

“I love winning and want to keep winning, wherever I am, and I would not have said yes to Cheik if I didn’t think there was a chance of winning. The Premiership is a tough competition and Tigers are in the mix at the top and I want to help the players and coaches get even better.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity with Argentina and Michael and it will be good to connect again in Leicester. I’m grateful to be able to go with the blessing of Japan and Eddie Jones, who has told me to embrace the club, competition, learn all I can and bring it back at the end of the season.”

Cheika added: “It’s great to be able to have someone of David’s experience in coaching join us and, as well as that, he brings a unique perspective on the game that will offer a valuable, new point of view.”

“Having worked with him before, I know what positives he will bring into our environment and that extends beyond just the players to the coaches and staff with the experience and knowledge he can pass on to them to help us improve.

“David was a tough player, successful player and both of those mindsets are going to be important for us to have for the remainder of this season.”