Ireland rugby head coach

The New Zealander has been seen as a likely successor to Steve Hansen at the All Blacks.

Schmidt will be replaced at Ireland by defence coach Andy Farrell.

Since taking on the job in 2013, Schmidt has overseen the team's most successful period, winning three Six Nations titles, as well as victories over New Zealand and a series triumph in Australia to announce Ireland as serious World Cup contenders.

Schmidt's Ireland contract expires after next year's World Cup in Japan and the 53-year-old admits he is still agonising about his decision.

"It's a decision that will probably not be finalised until Sunday, certainly by early next week," said Schmidt.

"But it's a decision that's been a long time coming," added the Ireland coach.

"To be honest I've beaten myself up enough about this decision. I'm probably going to be the most pleased of anyone when it is finally made."