Scott Sio has endorsed Stephen Larkham’s credentials as Test coach, after the Brumbies coach officially announced a move to become a full-time Wallabies assistant.
The front rower has played much of his career under Larkham at the Brumbies and said he could see him make the transition to Test coach.
Larkham last week announced a three-year deal with the Wallabies, in which he will focus solely on his national duties after the 2017 Super Rugby season, stepping aside from his from a Club where he won two Super Rugby titles, and was 127 times.
The move sparked more speculation that the former Wallabies flyhalf would be next in line for the job, earmarked as Michael Cheika’s successor.
Sio said Larkham’s shift into the head role at the Brumbies showed his potential as a national coach.
“I think he’d be great, he could definitely step up in the head coach role, though obviously Cheik’s our guy now,” he said.
“He stepped into that in the brumbies after Jake [White} left and Laurie [Fisher] moved on, we’ve had some success there.
“If that does come around, hopefully I’m still in the selection frame then, but I have full faith in him.”
Sio said the announcement was a good one for everyone and he backed Larkham to give his full attention to the Brumbies in his final season.
“It’s the right decision for himself and his family, I’m all for that,” he said.
I have no doubt he’ll be 100 per cent or the Brumbies next year and the wallabies for the following years. Any chance to work with him would be a real honour.”
Sio is heading on his first Spring Tour, kicking off with Saturday’s clash against Wales, looking to finish his year on a high.
“I’m really looking forward to the atmospheres, playing at all the home countries in their respective stadiums,” he said.
It’s something I’ve never experienced and I’m looking forward to it.”
The Wallabies take on Wales this Sunday morning, 6 November from 1.30am AEDT on BeIn Sports Channel 513, as part of your FOXTEL subscription.
