It seems increasingly likely that Laurie Daley will not be leading the NSW Blues in 2027.
Although he didn't explicitly mention it during his post-match press conference on Wednesday, his outburst aimed at the media clearly reflects the pressure he has faced during this Origin series.
For a champion player, the prospect of leaving the scene without a victory feels particularly daunting, especially after enduring significant criticism during this campaign.
His methods, player selections, and relationship dynamics have been under intense scrutiny, resembling a personal attack on the 56-year-old, who has not only coached the Blues 15 times but also played for them on 23 occasions.
As one of the longest-serving representatives for NSW, he is now in a position to possibly resign gracefully rather than being dismissed, yet it's uncertain who might step into that role next.
While some might advocate for Ivan Cleary, his chances of acceptance seem limited since he is set to coach the Penrith Panthers through 2027.
This situation could mean that the next coach will only have a one-year trial period, with Cleary potentially being considered for the 2028 position afterward.
It's a monumental decision for NSWRL, one they must finalize wisely as they aim for a third series win within four years, having claimed the titles in 2026 and 2024 at Suncorp Stadium.
Here are the candidates who should definitely be considered for the role.