McKellar has been dropped, Cheika has been linked with Leicester’s next manager

Dan McKellar has been sacked as manager of English top-flight club Leicester, with another Australian rugby luminary, Michael Cheika, tipped to replace him.

McKellar, the 47-year-old who left his job as forwards coach with the Wallabies ahead of last year’s World Cup to take over from current England boss Steve Borthwick at Leicester, has paid the price for a lackluster first season with the Tigers.

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The record 11-time English Premiership champions had an unconvincing campaign under former Brumbies coach McKellar, finishing eighth – 11 points off the play-offs.

However, McKellar’s departure – described by Leicester as “by mutual consent” – came as a surprise, such is his glowing reputation. At one point he had been earmarked as the Wallabies’ successor to Eddie Jones.

“Leicester Tigers can confirm the departure of Dan McKellar from his role as head coach with immediate effect,” a club statement said on Saturday.

“The decision was mutually agreed following extensive discussions regarding the future direction of the club.

“McKellar joined the Tigers in July 2023 from the Wallabies – where he was assistant coach for the Australian national team – and oversaw 30 matches for the Tigers in all competitions during the 23/24 campaign.

“The club has begun the process of finding a new head coach to lead the men’s program into the 24/25 season. Pre-season training for men’s players not on international duty begins on July 1 at Oval Park.

“We thank Dan for his contribution to Leicester Tigers and wish (wife) Carla (and children) Amelie and Maya every success in the future.”

A report in Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper said Leicester’s management and senior players did not buy into McKellar’s vision for the club.

Cheika, the 57-year-old former Wallabies coach who led Australia to the 2015 World Cup finals, is one of the frontrunners to replace McKellar.

He has not been involved in rugby since leaving his role as Argentina coach following the 2023 World Cup.

Cheika, who took Pumas to the semi-finals at the tournament in France, has had success at club level in Europe – with Leinster and Stade Francais – and back home with the NSW Waratahs.