The Wallabies have suffered a major blow less than a year out from the Rugby World Cup with the surprise resignation of attack coach Scott Wisemantel.
After a year which saw the Wallabies register just five wins from 14 Tests, Rugby Australia announced it would conduct a full review into the Wallabies program run by coach Dave Rennie.
RA announced on Thursday afternoon that Wisemantel had handed in his resignation, citing family reasons.
It came as a shock to officials, who had Wisemantel firmly as part of their plans for the game’s centrepiece event later this year.
“While this has been a very difficult decision, it’s one that’s best for me and my family at this point in time,” Wisemantel said in a statement.
“The World Cup is the pinnacle of our sport and requires 100 per cent commitment and that’s something I’m unfortunately unable to give at the moment.
“I’ve loved being with this team under Dave and wish them all the best for their season and in the World Cup later this year.”
Scott Wisemantel has resigned as Wallabies assistant coach.Credit:Stu Walmsley/Rugby Australia
Wisemantel was a highly respected coach among the playing group and joined Rennie as an assistant in 2020.
Rennie, who is likely to remain as Wallabies coach until the World Cup in France that begins in September, paid tribute to Wisemantel.
“Scott’s a top man and one of the best coaches I’ve ever worked with,” Rennie said.
“He’s hugely respected around the world, has a mountain of experience at international level and an incredible rapport with our players.
“While we did all we could to try and keep Scott, we respect his decision and wish him, Gabs and the girls all the best.
“He’s been a massive part of this group for the past three years and we’ll miss him.”
RA will begin the process of hiring a new attack coach but no timeline has been set on when an appointment will be made.
More to come
