Push for Wayne Bennett to become the next Kangaroos coach after Brad Fittler’s shock decline

The Kangaroos coaching race could be decided as early as this week, with the ARL Commission to discuss a potential rule change, amid a push for Wayne Bennett to once again coach Australia.

A push for Wayne Bennett to return as Kangaroos coach could be decided as early as this week when the ARL Commission meet.

Bennett has strong support for the vacant position since Brad Fittler shocked the NRL by opting against taking on the role. 

It is understood that Bennett is favourite to be appointed short-term, provided the commission decide a club coach can be cleared to coach the Kangaroos, which would force a rule change.

Bennett, Cameron Smith and Kevin Walters loom as the leading candidates although the job will be Bennett’s if there is a policy shift.

Shane Webcke with Wayne Bennett when he coached Australia in 2004. Picture: International Rugby League

The position would likely be a short-term role to cover off the end of year three-Test Ashes series against England. It would leave the door open for whoever takes charge to control the Australian team at next year’s World Cup.

With the tournament just three months away the ARLC need to finalise their next coach which could be why they opt for a short-term appointment.

They will meet for this first time this week since Fittler’s surprise decision to pull out of the race.

Brad Fittler shocked the NRL by opting not to pursue the Kangaroos’ job. Picture: Jeremy Ng/Getty Images

Bennett has privately indicated he would be keen to return to the Australian set-up for the first time in two decades.

“I’d like to stay out of the argument,” Bennett said on Saturday. “It’s someone else problem.”

Former Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga was told he would be unable to continue in the position after taking up the Perth Bears job. Bennett’s potential appointment would be interesting given the decision to not allow Meninga to keep the job despite his desire to coach Australia again this year.

If Bennett does step onto the hot seat, Smith could join him on his coaching staff if he is not given the permanent role.
There is a thought that the Australian coach would have needed to have success at club or state level.

Since he last coached Australia, Bennett has worked with the Kiwis and England.

Originally published as Push for Wayne Bennett to become the next Kangaroos coach after Brad Fittler’s shock decline