Former All Black Tom Donnelly Joins Wallabies Coaching Staff
A highly respected figure in the world of rugby, Tom Donnelly, formerly a lock for New Zealand’s All Blacks, has accepted a position on the coaching staff of the Australian national team, the Wallabies, ahead of the Rugby Championship. The appointment sees Donnelly stepping into the role previously held by Geoff Parling, who will depart following next week’s final Test match against the British & Irish Lions.
Donnelly brings a wealth of experience to the Wallabies, having earned 15 caps for the All Blacks and completed nearly 100 appearances in Super Rugby. He also spent three seasons playing professionally in France before transitioning to a coaching career.
From Player to Coach: Donnelly’s Career Trajectory
The 43-year-old’s recent coaching experience includes a stint with the Western Force for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, and a previous role as an assistant coach with the Highlanders. His appointment signals a strategic move by Rugby Australia to bolster their coaching ranks with proven expertise.
Donnelly expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “Watching from afar, the journey the team is on and the improvement they are making is exciting. I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and doing my part to continue the ongoing growth of the team.”
Expertise in Set Pieces to Benefit Wallabies
Rugby Australia’s high performance director, Peter Horne, highlighted Donnelly’s specialized skills as a key factor in the decision. “He’s got a great understanding of the current Super Rugby Pacific landscape as well as experience playing at the highest level which makes him a great fit for the role,” Horne said. Specifically, Horne emphasized that Donnelly’s expertise around the lineout and set piece will be “highly valuable” for the Wallabies as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
This appointment underscores the Wallabies’ commitment to strengthening their technical capabilities and building a competitive edge in the upcoming Rugby Championship and beyond.
