Waratahs great Chris Whitaker returns to NSW as backs coach

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NSW legend Chris Whitaker is returning to the Waratahs as the club’s new backs coach as former All Black Daryl Gibson signs on for another season after a much improved 2018 Super Rugby campaign.

Former halfback Whitaker played 118 games for NSW and 48 Tests for the Wallabies between 1998-2005.

Whitaker’s return to Sydney follows two years as co-head coach of French club Montauban, and stints with Stade Francais and Irish club side Leinster.

He replaces Chris Malone as one of Gibson’s two assistant coaches, with forwards specialist Simon Cron retained for the 2019 season.

“The knowledge and experience you gain overseas is great but it is time for me to come home and contribute to the game and a state that has given so much to me and my family throughout my career,” Whitaker said.

“Rugby in Australia is improving and I couldn’t pass on the chance to help further develop and grow the potential we have here.”

Gibson’s contract extension was expected after he won the Australian conference and led the Waratahs to the semifinals this season.

“I am really proud of how this team has developed and improved over the past 12 months to make the final four,” Gibson said.

“While our goal was to bring the Super Rugby trophy home, we can hold our heads high and reflect on a season in which we made massive inroads both on and off the field.

“The job is not done yet but we are excited about what’s to come.”

Gibson, who will be responsible for the attack portfolio next season, paid tribute to Malone’s three year stint with the club.

“Nobby has been an integral part of our team and the work that he has done with our backs and overall contribution to the success of the team has been immense,” Gibson said.

“We wish him all the very best as he forges a new career that he is very excited about.”

Malone also gave a statement in the Waratahs’ media release.

“It’s been fantastic to see the team come together this year and delivering on our potential,” Malone said.

“We are absolutely gutted we didn’t get through to the final but we can be proud of how we have played the game this year, including setting a new record by being the first NSW Waratahs team to score over 600 points in a season, along the way entertaining our members and fans, and representing our state with pride.

“One of the highlights for me this year was to hear the NSW chant at our games and it shows that rugby is getting the recognition it deserves.

“I have really enjoyed my time with the team and the organisation, there are a lot of good people here, and I leave knowing that the game in this state is in good hands.”

Waratahs chief executive Andrew Hore’s next task is securing off contract stars Michael Hooper, Israel Folau and Bernard Foley.