While the prospects of Irish rugby have never been brighter, there is a looming shadow after the 2019 World Cup - that is when Joe Schmidt's contract runs out.
"It's hard to say, it's a personal decision for Joe as to what he wants to do," IRFU performance director David Nucifora told RTÉ Sport's Michael Corcoran regarding the possibility of Schmidt remaining on as Ireland head coach after next year's tournament in Japan.
Given Schmidt's success, the IRFU are keen for the New Zealander to continue in his role beyond next year. Nucifora said that there is no deadline on when a decision will be made by Schmidt.
"We maintained his services when he was off contract the last time to bring him through to this World Cup.
"He's been up in this part of the world for a long time and he's got some choices to make. We would definitely like him to stay."
Ireland may not be the only suitors for Schmidt's signature - Steve Hansen's contract with the All Blacks also ends after the World Cup. The top job back home may interest Schmidt and the All Blacks may be interested in the 52-year-old.
If Schmidt does decide to depart, Nucifora believes that the individuals are already there within either the current coaching or the wider pool of Irish rugby to replace him.
We've been able to put in place a really strong world class coaching team around Joe that we've secured until the end of the 2020 season.
If, for whatever reason Joe decided to move on, at least we're in a position where continuity would be maintained with the other coaches that are involved.
I believe that we've got world class assistant coaches. I believe that we've got the all-round best coaching group in world rugby.
If Joe did move on, I believe that we've got the coaching talent, either coming out of that group or elsewhere in Irish rugby to find a solution. Until we have a decision on what Joe wants to do, then I suppose we're just surmising what could be or what might be.
Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
