Cheika on the verge of major double

NSW Waratahs coach Michael Cheika is banking on a proven formula as he strives to complete a feat of overseeing title triumphs in second-tier rugby competitions in both hemispheres.

In 2009, Cheika guided Ireland’s Leinster to the Heineken Cup, the northern hemisphere’s major tournament below Test level, contested by leading European club and provincial teams.

On Saturday, Cheika can add the southern hemisphere’s closest equivalent by winning the Super Rugby crown with NSW.

He is adopting a similar lead-up to the one that paid dividends five years ago.

Cheika, who is in his second season with NSW, noted parallels between the two campaigns.

Both Leinster and NSW vanquished a fierce domestic rival in their respective semi-final to book a showdown with a celebrated and consistent trophy-winning team from another country.

“In that season we (Leinster) had to overcome a domestic rival (Munster) before we went on to (English club) Leicester, which had a rich heritage in winning European cups,” Cheika recalled.

“We just relaxed a little bit that week, earlier in the week.

“Maybe on the second day, like today (Tuesday), start to say `right, let’s forget about all that other stuff and focus on what we need to do to beat this team’, then do the best we can on the Saturday.

“That’s pretty much the chart we’re trying to follow here.

Cheika wouldn’t be drawn on whether winning the Super title would be an even bigger accomplishment than his northern hemisphere triumph.

“I don’t think this week is the one for the big statements that this will be greater,” Cheika said.

“Once I’ve won it, I’ll have a think about it, because it’s really moot point until then.”

Cheika is focused on building a successful style of play that will serve NSW well for many years rather than just padding his resume with another title this weekend.

“If I can sit in the grandstand in 10 years time watch the team play and they are still playing the same way with the same competitive spirit, and (I can) say I was a part of building that, that’s more the rewards I’m looking for,” Cheika said.

“Short-term success is great as well. If you can get one of those (titles) it’s always a great night and a great thing for our supporters and of course I want to win it.”

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