Joe Schmidt is reported to be in line for a return to international rugby with New Zealand.
Stuff is reporting that the former Leinster and Ireland head coach will join the Kiwis set up as a selector.
It's understood the 56-year-old will replace Grant Fox on the coaching ticket under boss Ian Foster.
EXCLUSIVE: All Blacks coup: Joe Schmidt to join as selector, replacing Grant Fox https://t.co/CckzOms8jh
— Paul Cully (@paulcullystuff) December 13, 2021
A native of Kawakawa, Schmidt was recently installed as a support coach with Super Rugby club Auckland Blues.
That is a part-time role, and it is not clear whether he will leave that position for the mooted opportunity with New Zealand.
Schmidt left his job with Ireland in 2019 - after the World Cup where they lost to New Zealand - and has since worked with World Rugby.
He was involved with the governing body as director of rugby and high performance.
New Zealand suffered a disappointing finish to their calendar year, with losses to Ireland and France in the Autumn series last month.
Ireland are set to travel down under for a three-test series with the All Blacks next summer.
