MICHAEL CHEIKA has signed a three-year deal with the Stade Français owner Max Gauzzini to take over the reins at the misfiring Parisian club from next season until 2013, writes Gerry Thornley.

In the sense they are a big-spending yet under-achieving club, it looks like a good move for the outgoing Leinster coach, provided Cheika has control of the required squad overhaul. Languishing in eighth place in the Top 14, and unlikely to make even the expanded top six play-offs in the Top 14 for the Bouclier du Brennus, Stade may therefore not qualify for next season’s Heineken Cup through their domestic form.

Leinster chief executive Mick Dawson thanked Cheika for “always being up front with his future plans” and wished him the best from next season onwards, as did Brian O’Driscoll, “provided we never get them in Europe, of course. It doesn’t surprise me he hasn’t taken any time away from things; he’s got a great work ethic and a great passion for the game, so I wish him the best in his new move,” added O’Driscoll.