LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Cameron Smith has emerged as the frontrunner for the Kangaroos coaching position following Brad Fittler's withdrawal from consideration.
Fittler decided to focus on his media obligations and his role with the NRL, paving the way for Smith, who is the game's most-capped player, to take the helm after Mal Meninga accepted the inaugural coaching role for the Perth Bears.
Fittler had been a leading candidate to coach Australia in the upcoming Ashes series but confirmed his decision on Monday night.
He stated, "There was an opportunity there.
I was grateful for (the NRL for) thinking of me.
My commitment is to Channel 9, I work for the NRL in participation and commercial.
I'm enjoying that.
When the role came about I started planning and thinking this is probably for someone else at the moment."
With Fittler out of the running, Smith now stands to take the job, marking a significant potential shift in leadership for the Kangaroos as they look towards future competitions.