LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Michael Maguire has emerged as the successful candidate for the highly coveted role of the next NSW State of Origin coach, according to reports.
The 49-year-old, who previously led the South Sydney Rabbitohs to the NRL premiership in 2014, has reportedly entered the final stages of accepting the position.
Despite currently serving as an assistant coach at the Canberra Raiders, Maguire has been granted permission by the club to pursue this opportunity.
The decision to appoint Maguire comes after former coach Brad Fittler stepped down from the position earlier this month.
Fittler's request for a two-year contract extension was denied, leading to his departure.
The NSWRL board not only offered Fittler a one-year deal for 2024, but also decided to change the coaching role from full-time to part-time.
This move has attracted criticism from former players Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers, who questioned the commitment of the NSWRL board towards the State of Origin series.
They raised concerns over the decision to switch from a full-time contract to a part-time arrangement, suggesting that it may not reflect the importance and intensity of the tournament.
The NSWRL's new approach means that the incoming coach will only be employed for approximately five months, specifically for the duration of the Origin series.
The change in structure has sparked debate about the board's priorities and their dedication to nurturing a successful team.
As Maguire prepares to take on the role, his extensive experience in the NRL and previous success as a premiership-winning coach with the Rabbitohs will undoubtedly provide him with a strong foundation.
However, the challenge of leading the NSW Blues against their traditional rivals, the Queensland Maroons, in the highly competitive State of Origin series is no small feat.
Maguire's appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the NSW State of Origin team.
The rugby league community will be eagerly watching to see how he shapes the team and whether he can guide them to victory in the prestigious series.