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By Lee Stace

THE FORCE will need to think long and hard about who they appoint as their next head coach, as failure to do so could spell big problems for the already-struggling franchise.

The Perth-based outfit is searching for a new mentor after Richard Graham (above) earlier this week dropped a bombshell by confirming rumours that he will link up with the Reds next year.

His defection has the potential to cause a knock-on effect that could spell trouble. Big trouble. The kind a team like the Force might not be able to recover from.

Graham’s departure two years ahead of schedule follows the announcement earlier in 2012 that veteran lock Nathan Sharpe will retire at the end of the Super Rugby season.

The decision by these two gentlemen to wave goodbye could see star Wallaby flanker and Force captain David Pocock follow them out the door.

The man they call ‘BamBam’ has yet to re-sign with the franchise and now faces a dilemma of staying in Western Australia or joining the Reds or Melbourne Rebels, two sides he has been linked to.

Losing Sharpe is one thing, but losing Pocock is another. It would be a massive blow for the Force; a dagger through their heart given that they also parted ways with utility back James O’Connor at the end of last season.

That is why the appointment of a coach – and a quality one at that – is crucial. It could well be the difference between Pocock deciding to stay or leaving for greener pastures.

Force chief executive Vern Reid said the search has already commenced and that Pocock and the other senior players would be consulted during the process. He is after an Australian candidate and has thrown up Michael Cheika and Andy Friend as possible candidates.

But whoever is chosen must be respected and have a good rapport with Pocock, otherwise he could be the next high-profile star to leave Perth. The franchise could fall apart if that happens.

The pressure is on the Force to get it right. The question is: will they?

Posted Comments

mushroomheadd

24-04-2012
18:53:17

One thing is for sure - Eddie Jones is almost Never Right - If that is what he says - then 5 teams is just about right for Australia... Calmer - and more intelligent heads know that Super Rugby is ultimately a 'training grade' - a breeding ground for Test Rugby. The question is not what quality the players are today - (look at the Lions & Cheetahs) - but what the quality will be in 5, 10 & 20 years... The Force must go for the best in the World - not just the Best n Australia.

dodger

19-04-2012
21:56:55

devilliers?... what about cooper haha

Judi

19-04-2012
20:51:35

Sad but there are too many Ausie teams as it is. They struggle to find players for all the teams. Eddie Jones is right. Get rid of the gravy train of players that are really B grade players.

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