Michael Cheika: ‘Lebanese sport doesn’t get many moments like this’

“I feel like a kid in a new school, meeting all my new friends for the first time,” Michael Cheika says, smiling. The former Wallabies coach is in Manchester where his Lebanon team are preparing for the Rugby League World Cup, and the 55-year-old Australian is beginning his month-long flirtation with the 13-man code.

Some individuals switch codes for money. Others do it to further their careers. Cheika, one of the most recognisable rugby coaches on the planet, isn’t interested in either. His brief transition into the world of rugby league is much more personal and far more emotional.

Cheika was born and raised in Sydney, where there is an enormous Lebanese community. He played rugby league as a junior growing up with Sydney Roosters, and the game was his first love before going on to forge a successful career as a player and coach in union. He has considered switching back to league on numerous occasions, but the timing and the opportunity has never been right. Until now.

Cheika’s parents are Lebanese immigrants and when Lebanon’s rugby federation approached him about coaching the Cedars at the World Cup, originally set for last year before the 12-month postponement, he could not resist, even though he is currently employed as the head coach of Argentina’s union team, the Pumas.

“It was too good to say no to,” he says. “I never thought I’d be able to represent my family’s heritage in this way. I’m incredibly proud of my Lebanese roots, as are my entire family. My old man isn’t here anymore, he passed away, but my mum will be glued to the games I’m sure, and really proud that our family is doing something to try and put a smile on the faces of the people of Lebanon.”

Lebanon are in a group with New Zealand, Ireland and