Breaking: Joe Schmidt Steps Down As Ireland Head Coach With Immediate Effect

Joe Schmidt has stepped down as coach of the Ireland national team.

The New Zealander, who guided Ireland to back to back Six Nations titles in 2014 and 2015 has endured a difficult few months as Ireland were once again knocked out of the Rugby World Cup at the quarter final stage, and finished mid-table in the 2016 Six Nations.

Schmidt released the following statement:

I would like to thank the IRFU and it’s supporters for the past few years. I will be taking an extended break from the game to assess my options and wish the next coach every success.

The IRFU had this to say on the shocking news:

Joe has been an excellent servant to the IRFU and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.

Anthony Foley and Leo Cullen have emerged this morning as the bookies favourites to take up the vacant position. This is also an April Fools joke for anyone that hasn’t copped it yet. Feel free to share and shock a few people! 🙂