LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Kevin Walters is set to be appointed as the next head coach of the Kangaroos, with an announcement expected as soon as Monday.
According to News Corp, he will replace Mal Meninga on a three-game contract, specifically to lead the Kangaroos in the upcoming Ashes series against England.
The Australian Rugby League Commission recently held a meeting and decided to maintain a ban on club coaches taking on the national team role, which eliminated candidates like veteran coach Wayne Bennett.
Brad Fittler, initially seen as a strong contender, withdrew from consideration due to his commitments with Channel Nine.
Former Kangaroos captain Cameron Smith was also a candidate, but the ARLC seemed to favor a coach with significant top-level experience, paving the way for Walters' selection.
When asked about his potential appointment during a segment on Fox League's NRL coverage, Walters remained tight-lipped but indicated an announcement was forthcoming.
"I can't tell you anything.
There'll be a decision made tomorrow," he remarked.
"Obviously I'd be very privileged and grateful to get the opportunity to coach Australia.
It's a privilege to put the green and gold on and to coach the side, even more so.
We'll just see what happens tomorrow."
The ARLC has been in search of a successor to Meninga since he stepped down to join the expansion Perth Bears, set to enter the NRL in 2027.
With Fittler's withdrawal and the ban on club coaches in place, the competition effectively narrowed down to Walters and Smith for the Kangaroos' Ashes campaign.
While Smith is regarded as one of the greatest players in modern rugby, his lack of experience as a professional head coach made Walters the clear choice for the role.