Considering how it is often now overlooked when discussing his success with the Irish rugby team, it can be easy to forget just how much of an impact Joe Schmidt had at Leinster prior to his step up to test level.
The Kiwi arrived at the province in 2010, and while the team had experienced success at the highest level in the years prior to that, he did quite a bit to establish them as one of the most dominant and consistent teams in European rugby. Schmidt would win two Heineken Cups, a Challenge Cup, and a URC title during his time in charge.
While the 58-year old would help to mould a number of future stars of Irish rugby during this period, he was also helped by some overseas imports. Isa Nacewa was in his prime during his time at the province, while the likes of Nathan Hines, Richardt Strauss, and Brad Thorn all played their part in hugely successful campaigns.
As it turns out, Schmidt was also looking to add one of the most exciting players in world rugby to that list.
READ HERE: Joe Schmidt Enjoyed Cheeky Dig At Eddie Jones On Aussie Rugby Podcast
Joe Schmidt tried to bring Aussie rugby legend to Leinster
Joe Schmidt appeared on the Kick Offs and Kick Ons podcast in recent days, with the new Australia head coach enjoying one or two digs that were thrown at his predecessor Eddie Jones during the course of the show.
One of the hosts on the Aussie podcast is former Wallabies star Matt Giteau, who made 103 appearances for the nation across a glittering 14-year international career.
The utility back was one of the most exciting players in world rugby in his prime, starring for a decade in Super Rugby before eventually making his way to Toulon in 2011, where he would win three Heineken Cups.
As it turns out, he might well have ended up at Leinster around this period.
Speaking on the podcast, Schmidt recalled how he tried to sign Giteau at Leinster, only to be priced out of the move.
Schmidt: I was coach of Leinster for three years. That was when I failed to get you, I tried to buy you!
Giteau: Not enough money. I could have fixed that for you!
Schmidt: Mate, there wasn't enough left for the team if I did. As a team of one Gits, you would have been outstanding.
While it is unclear exactly when this move would have come about, it stands to reason that it would have been in 2011 when Matt Giteau eventually did sign for Toulon.
Considering the impact he had on the French club and the quality of Leinster's team at the time, it would have been remarkable to see what one of the world's most exciting players could have done had he ended up in Irish rugby.
With Toulon going on to unseat Leinster as the best team in European rugby soon after his arrival, it could have had a major impact on the fortunes of both teams had the Irish province stumped up the cash to get the deal done.
SEE ALSO: Ex-Scotland Star Accuses Ireland of Arrogance After Jamie Heaslip Comments
