The Roar
The Roar

Advertisement

NSW reportedly decide on their next Origin coach

23rd November, 2017
Advertisement
Previous winning New South Wales State of Origin captains (L-R) Laurie Daley, Geoff Toovey, Brad Fittler, Danny Buderus, Andrew Johns and Paul Gallen line up during a jersey presentation to the winning New South Wales State of Origin captains at The Star on March 9, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
Editor
23rd November, 2017
24
2230 Reads

New South Wales’ search for a new Origin coach is reportedly over, with Brad Fittler set to be unveiled as Laurie Daley’s successor.

Fittler has long been touted as the man most likely to take over, and is set to be officially announced as the Blues’ new mentor on Friday, according to 7 News’ Liam Squire.

If true, Fitter will have beaten out Michael Maguire to the post, as well as the likes of John Cartwright and David Furner.

Fittler has a mixed history of coaching rugby league sides. His two-year stint in charge of the Sydney Roosters was notable for its lack of success, however he has been lauded for his impact on the City Origin side and helped Lebanon to their first ever win at the Rugby League World Cup, before bowing out with a narrow loss to Tonga.

Fittler played 31 matches for New South Wales, captaining the Blues on 14 occasions, in a decorated playing career.

Earlier on Thursday, Daley threw his support behind Fittler as his potential successor, saying his experience as a Blues player had him in good stead.

Advertisement

“I think it does (help) because it’s different to any other game,” Daley said.

“It’s a really big build up. It’s like three grand finals in six weeks and the rollercoaster you have is very emotional.

“If you don’t understand it and you get caught up in it you can lose sight and focus.”

Fittler has been noted for his relaxed style in City Origin camps and with Lebanon for this year’s World Cup.

He has also spoken about his desire to lead the next generation of Blues, which is likely to include young stars such as the Trbojevic brothers and Nathan Cleary.

With AAP

close