The Waratahs have promised to cast a wide net in search of a replacement for Ewen McKenzie but the best man for the job may be sitting right in front of their noses.
In my opinion, Eastwood coach Chris Hickey could be the jewel in the crown. Hickey has an amazing record of success - the past 17 teams he has overseen have made the grand final and he recently took the Australian under-21s to the final of the World Cup.
It's an unbelievable record and would be the envy of other contenders. People might argue the transition from club and Wallabies under-21s to Super 14 rugby is a big step, but I don't believe this to be the case. Queensland's Phil Mooney has made the step up very easily and shown it can be done.
One thing in Hickey's advantage is he knows the local landscape very well and is aware of the young talent coming through the ranks. The thing that might count against him is that he hasn't got the profile of some of the other local or overseas contenders have created for themselves. But I don't think that is the be all and end all.
NSW chief executive Jim L'Estrange has talked about the rich tapestry of names here and abroad that have expressed interest in the job, but after coaching overseas for several years, I don't necessarily believe overseas experience is a must.
The grass isn't always greener on the other side and it would be good for a New South Welshman to be coaching the Waratahs.
It's a logical step that the most successful coach in the Shute Shield - seen as the pathway for players and coaches in NSW - should be the top contender for the Waratahs. I believe that whoever gets the job should have an affinity with NSW and truly love the jersey - and that's another tick in the box for Hickey.
I've also cast my eye over the other contenders.
The question is, will L'Estrange and his offsiders be able to pick the right man?
The McKenzie issue wasn't handled well and there is talk L'Estrange and NSWRU chairman Arvid Petersen could follow him out the door. It's understood a number of board members learned what was happening in the coaching saga only after they read it in the paper.
It will be interesting to see what they are looking for in a coach. The first thing they will have to wade through is the politics, lobbying and personal agendas.
They need to find someone with outstanding management skills and an eye for talent. Someone who won't crack under the pressure. And, most importantly, a rugby man.
It appears McKenzie was involved in a lot of peripheral management issues that perhaps he shouldn't have had to worry about. The Tahs have a good manager in Chris Webb to look after off-field issues.
HOW I RATE THE CANDIDATES
■ Todd Louden: The favourite. Some say the NSW attack coach
has already been promised the job.
■ Laurie Fisher: I rate him highly. I'd be surprised if the Brumbies let Fisher go.
■ Steve Meehan: The director of rugby at Bath in England is reportedly interested but is an unlikely appointment.
■ Michael Cheika: Has done well as Leinster coach, but has signed for two more years.
■ David Nucifora: The Auckland coach had a turbulent career at the Brumbies and it may cost him. He remains a chance.
■ John McKee: Coached the Central Coast Rays to the ARC title and was a premiership-winning mentor at Eastwood. Worth considering.
■ OTHERS - Brian Smith from London Irish and Waratahs assistant Steve Tuynman.
