Former Sale coach John Mitchell has confirmed that he has turned down an approach by the IRFU to coach the Ireland side and that he is happy to fulfil his four-year contract with Western Force.
The New Zealander was one of three names identified by the IRFU on a shortlist that also includes Declan Kidney and Jake White.
“I have had an approach by Ireland,” Mitchell told the Irish Daily Mail.
“I do not deny that I want to come back and coach in the British Isles at some stage but not now.
“I have a four-year contract here and I’m big on showing loyalty to this organisation. There have been some opportunities since the World Cup but building up this brand new club is important to me.
“I have been very clear about not pursuing any interest from overseas. There are plenty of challenges for me here.”