Australia skipper George Gregan has given his full backing to John Connolly after the former Queensland Reds boss was appointed as the new national coach.
The Australian Rugby Union made their decision on the replacement for the sacked Eddie Jones today, and Connolly will be at the helm for the Wallabies’ World Cup campaign next year after agreeing a two-year deal.
Gregan believes Connolly’s credentials are perfect for the role, citing his foreign experience as a big plus for the Wallabies.
"It’s good news that we’ve got a head coach in there...with his great experience both here in Australia and what he’s done overseas as well," Gregan told ABC Sport.
Wallabies flanker Phil Waugh also believes Connolly will bring a much-needed physical edge to the team, something he reckons is lacking in the Australian game at the moment.
"He’s obviously a tough guy and he enjoys playing rugby the hard way, which is probably something we need in Australian rugby at the moment," Waugh said.
The 54-year-old Connolly coached the Reds from 1989 to 2000, winning two Super 10 premierships and two Super 12 minor premierships before embarking on an international coaching career in Europe, most recently at Bath.
