LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Following Brad Fittler's announcement that he was stepping down as NSW State of Origin coach, Craig Bellamy and Ricky Stuart have emerged as the leading contenders to replace him.
Fittler had made his case to extend his contract, but ultimately withdrew himself from contention after the board offered only a one-year extension and a significant pay cut.
Matty Johns, a former Newcastle Knights player, believes that the NSW coach should not be required to be independent of an NRL team.
He argues that a full-time NRL coach like Bellamy or Stuart would be well-suited for the position given the current circumstances.
Johns points to the success of Billy Slater, who has done an incredible job coaching Queensland despite being a full-time NRL coach as well.
The suggestion is that NSW needs a coach who is "coach fit" and able to devote the necessary time and energy to the job.
Both Bellamy and Stuart are highly regarded in the rugby league community, with extensive coaching experience and success at both club and representative levels.
Bellamy, the long-time coach of the Melbourne Storm, is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the game.
His ability to develop and get the best out of his players is well-documented, and he has led the Storm to multiple NRL premierships.
Stuart, on the other hand, has had success coaching both the Canberra Raiders and the Parramatta Eels.
He has a deep understanding of the State of Origin arena, having coached NSW previously and played in the series during his playing career.
Ultimately, the decision on who will take over as NSW coach will rest with the NSW Rugby League board.
However, Bellamy and Stuart appear to be strong candidates who could bring the necessary expertise and passion to lead the Blues to victory in future State of Origin campaigns.