LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a strategic move reminiscent of a game-winning play, Souths are making a bold move to secure the services of master coach Wayne Bennett amid concerns that he may be eyeing a coaching position at Parramatta.
Reports suggest that the Rabbitohs are gearing up to offer Wayne Bennett a lucrative three-year deal starting from 2025, as they fear the possibility of him joining Parramatta.
The Sydney Morning Herald has revealed that Souths are keen to bring Bennett back to the club and are keeping a close watch on Brad Arthur, whose contract with the Eels expires at the end of the 2024 NRL season.
Recent rumors have surfaced that Bennett has been in talks with Parramatta about potentially taking over the coaching role if Arthur is let go or not offered a new contract.
With Arthur under mounting pressure after 11 years at the helm, Parramatta has struggled to clinch a premiership title, finding themselves once again outside the top eight.
To add to their woes, key players like Clint Gutherson and Mitch Moses are currently sidelined.
Looking ahead, Bennett is determined not to be constrained by time limitations, a key lesson learned from his previous coaching stints with Souths and the Dolphins.
His goal is to secure a minimum three-year deal to go after his eighth premiership as a coach, a proposition that the Rabbitohs are reportedly open to considering.
It seems like Souths are willing to play the long game in their pursuit of securing Bennett's expertise for the future.