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Les Kiss – the former Queensland Maroons star turned rugby union coach – will replace fellow State of Origin hero Brad Thorn as the Reds coach in 2024.
Just days after The Roar revealed that Kiss was the favourite to take over from Thorn and a decision was imminent following a long evening of meetings at Ballymore on Wednesday, it can be confirmed the experienced coach is set to return to Australia to take over the Super Rugby franchise.
Kiss beat an estimated 40 applicants to the post, which featured figures from all corners of the globe.
It’s believed the Reds spoke with former Wallabies and Super Rugby winning coach Michael Cheika as recently as last week.
But the fact the vastly experienced coach isn’t available until after the World Cup played against him. As did the QRU’s desire to have a Queenslander take over from Thorn.
After appointing several raw head coach coaches in a row since Ewen McKenzie joined the Wallabies in 2013, the Reds also wanted an experienced figure to turn their fortunes around and once again emerge as title contenders.
Former Queensland State of Origin star Les Kiss will take over from Brad Thorn as head coach. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
Kiss, 58, has more than two decades of experience after coaching in Australia, South Africa, Ireland and England.
Having been an assistant with the Springboks and Ireland at two World Cup campaigns as a defence coach, the former North Sydney Bears winger took over as the Director of Rugby at Ulster before joining London Irish as their head coach in 2018.
After being promoted from the Championship, Kiss led the club up the English Premiership standings each year where they finished fifth this season.
But the club’s financial struggles saw London Irish go into administration, forcing players and coaches to look elsewhere.
While Kiss was also shortlisted at Edinburgh, The Roar understands the former Maroons winger has agreed to terms to take over from Thorn.
Les Kiss has a big task on his hand to turn the Reds into consistent threats. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
An official announcement isn’t expected soon, but the move is a significant one for the Reds and comes just weeks after the opening of the franchise’s new high-performance facility at Ballymore.
The pending announcement will also help the franchise’s recruitment and retention plans, with a plethora of Queensland rugby figures eagerly awaiting who would be appointed.
Kiss’ arrival will be welcomed by many, with the coach widely respected.
But his rebuilding mission won’t be easy, with several gaps in the Reds’ roster, particularly in the tight-five.
The Reds also need another ball-running back-rower to lessen the load on Harry Wilson.
Kiss will also be cognizant that Wallabies trio Hunter Paisami, Jordan Petaia and Jock Campbell are all off contract at the end of next season.
One of his first priorities will be ensuring bread is broken with maligned player agent Anthony Picone, with too much star talent lost because of old wounds.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.