A new coach for the NSW Waratahs is expected to be in place next month, with the position attracting significant interest from candidates around the rugby world.
The NSW Rugby Union are looking to fill the vacancy prompted by the resignation of former All Black Daryl Gibson, who occupied the role for four seasons after succeeding Michael Cheika.
Player recruitment has been put on hold until a coach has been appointed and the successful applicant will have to oversee a major rebuild.
The Waratahs lost a wealth of experience at the end of a disappointing 2019 campaign with Wallabies prop Sekope Kepu and halfback Nick Phipps both heading to English club London Irish.
Although the Waratahs beat eventual champions the Crusaders, they missed the play-offs by languishing third in the Australian conference and 12th overall.
The NSWRU met on Wednesday before providing an update on the search for a new head coach.
“The vacancy has garnered a significant amount of attention, with a vast number of active coaches in world rugby indicating their interest in the position,” a statement said.
“The (selection) committee has indicated the ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success at the highest level and the ability to manage and develop talent.”
The NSWRU hopped to have Gibson’s replacement unveiled by mid-September.
Meanwhile, the union is yet to finalise venues for the Waratahs home Super Rugby fixtures in 2020 as the redeveloped Sydney Football Stadium remains out of bounds.