
LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Laurie Daley remains resolute about his role as NSW coach, insisting he should "definitely" continue through to 2026 despite ongoing coaching questions following a disappointing State of Origin series.
The Blues squandered a 1-0 series lead, ultimately ceding the title back to Queensland, a result that has drawn scrutiny.
Players have rallied in support of Daley, accepting responsibility for the team's failures.
Daley, who previously coached the Blues from 2013 to 2017, returned this year after Michael Maguire's successful run, where the team achieved a remarkable victory in game three of the previous year's series at Suncorp Stadium.
Expectations were high for Daley to build on this momentum, especially since he was not coaching a team filled with future Immortals this time.
The series kicked off positively with a win in Brisbane, but the subsequent matches saw NSW falter, particularly in the first halves, leading to an unexpected loss despite being favorites to retain the shield.
Critics have pointed out that Daley has lost all four deciders during his tenure as coach.
His roster decisions, particularly the omission of Terrell May and Keaon Koloamatangi, are likely to face further examination after the team was overpowered in the middle.
In response to whether he should stay on, Daley's confident affirmation signals his commitment to the team and its future prospects.