DISRESPECTFUL BAN: Cheika Questions If He Is Welcome In England After Ban
Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has expressed frustration and disappointment after receiving a two-match ban in England’s Premiership league for disrespecting a matchday medical official. Cheika, now coaching Leicester, questioned whether he’s welcome in the league, feeling the ban was excessive for a minor disagreement.
The incident occurred during Leicester’s September 21 win over Exeter, when Cheika disputed the permanent removal of player Ollie Chessum. The disciplinary panel described Cheika’s behavior as “overly aggressive with intense eye contact” towards the independent match-day doctor.
Cheika admitted disappointment and hurt to his reputation, initially hesitant to participate in the judicial process. He emphasized wanting to stand up for himself without disrespecting the process or risking further trouble.
The 57-year-old Australian will return to coaching this weekend against Northampton, after serving his ban, which included watching Leicester’s 42-10 win over Newcastle remotely from Paris.
Cheika’s comments highlight tensions between his passionate coaching style and the league’s disciplinary expectations, sparking debate about his future in England’s domestic league.
