Embarrassing postscript to Wallabies' doomed World Cup campaign

Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle felt compelled to write a letter of apology over the behaviour of the Wallabies squad at the World Cup, according to media reports.

Tournament organisers were said to have been unhappy with a number of the Australian contingent in Japan, including former coach Michael Cheika, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

'APPALLINGLY INSENSITIVE': PM slams Israel Folau's bushfire comments

HUGE OPPORTUNITY: Why 'proud' Kiwi Dave Rennie chose the Wallabies over the All Blacks

The paper quotes an unnamed source, who reportedly saw Castle's letter, in which she bids to made amends for Cheika's criticism of World Rugby and referees, and presenting a general "us against them" attitude during the tournament.

In particular, Cheika criticised the decision to slap Wallabies winger Reece Hodge with a three-week suspension for a dangerous tackle on Fiji's Peceli Yato, which left World Rugby bosses unimpressed.

Cheika revealed after the tournament that he would not seek an extension to the five-year spell he served after the Wallabies were beaten 40-16 by England in the quarter-finals.

The Herald report also said World Rugby had opted not to comment when contacted for a reaction.

Rugby Australia announce new Wallabies coach

New Zealander Dave Rennie is the new Wallabies coach, having signed a three-and-a-half year deal through till the end of the 2023 World Cup.

Rennie replaces Michael Cheika who chose not to seek re-appointment following Australia's World Cup quarter-final exit.

Currently in charge of Glasgow Warriors in Scotland, 55-year-old Rennie coached New Zealand's Chiefs to Super Rugby titles in 2012 and 2013.

Rennie becomes the Wallabies' second non-Australian coach, following countryman Robbie Deans who led the side from 2008 to 2013.

"I've been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I've gone, I've immersed myself in the community and culture. I believe I can make a difference here," Rennie said.

"There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system."I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time."

Because of his commitments with Glasgow in the Pro14, Rennie will take up the post with Australia in July.