Brad Fittler quits as NSW Origin coach as Ricky Stuart emerges as likely replacement for state in need
Brad Fittler resisted the calls to stand down 11 weeks ago but in the end he had no choice. And neither do the NSW Blues when choosing a replacement, PHIL ROTHFIELD writes.
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Eleven weeks ago I wrote the most difficult open letter to NSW Blues State of Origin coach Brad Fittler, calling on him to stand down.
It was difficult because Freddy has been such a wonderful ambassador to rugby league in this state for such a long period of time. The charity work, coaching clinics, school visits, junior pathways, corporate events, Hogs for Homeless bike rides and efforts as both an outstanding player and coach over 33 years.
But that’s not enough. And now he’s walking away.
State of Origin is all about winning and in the last three seasons, we’ve lost two series to the freshly re-signed Billy Slater and the Maroons.
It’s just not good enough for this state at the most elite level with the amount of talent we have to be falling behind Queensland.
Freddy is no quitter, and in recent weeks, has fought desperately to retain the job.
But one by one, his trusted assistants bailed out — Greg Alexander, Paul McGregor, Danny Buderus and the eighth Immortal Andrew Johns.
Freddy wanted to bring in Phil Gould, but the NSWRL board was reluctant to go down that path.
The door now opens for the NSWRL to bring back Ricky Stuart, who I have said all along is the man to restore pride in the NSW jersey.
To hell with the fact that he is coaching the Canberra Raiders … if he is the best man for the job, he should get it.
Stuart did an outstanding job to steer the Raiders into the finals this year with a side that had nowhere near the talent of South Sydney, Manly or other sides that finished below them.
He is keen to have another crack, but refused to apply for the job out of loyalty to Fittler.
The path is now clear for his return.
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