• Huge blow for Rugby Australia ahead of home 2027 World Cup
• New Zealander to face All Blacks in last match in charge in October

Joe Schmidt will step down as Wallabies coach at the end of this year’s Rugby Championship in a blow to Australia’s hopes in the 2027 World Cup.

The New Zealander confirmed on Thursday he would extend his contract beyond the British and Irish Lions tour, but won’t continue through to the showpiece tournament on home soil.