Queensland are breathing easier after Kevin Walters officially ruled himself out of the running for the Gold Coast Titans job.
The QRL had been sweating on Walters to make a final decision on his future after being linked to the NRL job since Neil Henry’s sacking two weeks ago.
Walters is not off contract with the Maroons until next year.
But he but is now expected to sign a new QRL deal with his stocks at an all-time high after being just the second Queensland coach to win his first two series at the helm.
“No, I am still happy with what I am doing here,” Walters told Sky Sports Radio when asked about the Titans job.
“That would be an excellent opportunity for someone but just right now I am sticking with the QRL.
“It’s been a great challenge for us so we will continue along that pathway.”
Mal Meninga had urged Walters to stay with Queensland, saying there was no standout candidate to replace him.
The Titans are now narrowing down their search with a replacement for Henry expected to be named by November.
Gold Coast interim co-coaches Craig Hodges and Terry Matterson are expected to be in the mix while Canterbury mentor Des Hasler and Manly great Geoff Toovey have also been linked to the battling club.
Gary
Guest
Agree it would be a step back for Kevie. That said the names being thrown about are scarily average. A bunch of seasoned (stale) candidates who have been recycled in Head Coaching and Assistant Coaching roles across all grades here and in the super league. If the Titans are to have any success it needs to be with a fresh - yet to be discovered coaching talent. The Walker brothers fit this bill, but there must be others coming through the lower grades?
Suechi
Guest
Yeah, smart decision Kevvie. Read today that Cartwright is keen to return - that would be a first!
Mike L
Guest
Good decision from Kev. Can you imagine the circus that will play out next year as Hayne comes off contract. The Titans will (should) offer him about ten bucks a game given his recent form. Hayne will then have a sulk and his manager will declare he is off to French Rugby unless the NRL use some of their cash to keep him. It will be tough enough coaching the Titans in a normal year, let alone with all that going on.
DJ
Guest
Good choice. It would be career suicide going there. Hayne is practically running the show.
Ghost Crayfish
Roar Pro
Kevvie once again proves he's smarter than the average coach... As for the Titans gig, I say give it to the Walker boys! They'll freshen the place up and get the lads playing some good attacking footy. Des Hasler or Geoff Toovey? No way!
Rob
Guest
Smart move Kevie.