LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Kevin Walters, Cameron Smith, and Brad Fittler are reportedly the leading candidates to become the next Kangaroos coach, as Mal Meninga is expected to step down to take the role of inaugural coach for the Perth Bears.
Meninga's transition is anticipated to be announced in the coming weeks, but it will necessitate his immediate resignation from the Kangaroos coaching position, as NRL officials want him to begin forming the Bears' roster promptly.
Leading journalist Michael Chammas highlighted that Meninga will be "removed" as Kangaroos coach, meaning he won't be able to lead the team in the upcoming Ashes series against England, a significant setback given his history with the series as a player.
Chammas stated, "The NRL does not want Meninga to coach Australia at the end-of-season Ashes series in England, instead wanting him to focus on building the Bears' roster for their 2027 debut." The Bears can start negotiating with players from November 1 this year, but Meninga would be in England at that time, which raises questions about his ability to effectively manage both responsibilities.
Currently, "three names are in the mix" for the new coaching position: Walters, Smith, and Fittler.
Walters and Fittler, both noted figures from the State of Origin rivalry-having coached Queensland and NSW, respectively-are in consideration.
Walters was interviewed for the Bears job earlier this month after being sacked by the Broncos last year.
Fittler, who coached NSW for six years with a mixed record of three series wins and three losses before stepping down in 2024, recently returned to coaching with the Prime Minister's XIII team against Papua New Guinea.