Sport Confidential: Laurie Daley’s NSW Blues TAB hurdle, Panthers extend grand final hero

With NSWRL officially launch their search for Michael Maguire’s replacement, frontrunner Laurie Daley’s hopes of a Blues coaching recall could hinge on one sacrifice.

Laurie Daley’s hopes of a Blues coaching recall could hinge on how the NRL views his deal with the TAB as the NSW Rugby League prepares to discuss the position at a board meeting on Friday morning.

Daley is considered one of the frontrunners to take over from Michael Maguire at the helm of the Blues next season but his contract with the wagering giant shapes as a significant impediment to a State of Origin return.

The NRL has previously blocked Daley returning to the coaching ranks due to his work with the TAB, where he hosts a breakfast show on Sky Sports Radio with former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke.

Sky Sports Radio is owned by TAB. Daley was forced to turn his back on a job with Manly two years ago after head office raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest.

History suggests the NRL will rule the same way with the Blues job, although it is understood they will reserve their judgment until an official request is made.

The Blues aren’t at that point yet - they will edge closer to a decision when the board meets on Friday to formally discuss Maguire’s replacement for the first time.

Daley coached the Blues over five series at the height of the Maroons’ dynasty, winning on one occasion. The Blues will consider a host of candidates ahead of making their decision. Daley remains in the mix as will Maguire’s 2024 Origin assistants in Brett White and Max King.

Former Blues hooker Mick Ennis has support while other former NSW players Ben Hornby and Dean Young should be considered.

Trent Barrett and Paul McGregor are also expected to put their hands up for the job.

PANTHERS EXTEND GF HERO

Penrith centre Paul Alamoti has been rewarded for his starring role in the club’s fourth consecutive premiership with a new deal that will keep him at the club until the end of 2027.

Alamoti, currently in camp with the Tongan side at the Pacific Championships, has signed a fresh extension, having found a permanent home in the side following the departure of Taylan May.

The 20-year-old was earmarked as a future star at the Bulldogs but moved to Penrith at the start of the year and went on to play 16 games, including their grand final win over Melbourne.

After arriving at Penrith on a cut-price one-year deal, he signed a one-year extension in March and he has now secured a further two years at the club.

“He has taken every opportunity presented to him, and we are excited to see what the future holds for him with the Panthers,” Penrith General Manager of Football Shane Elford said.

“We’re pleased to have Paul commit to Panthers until the end of 2027.

“Paul is an exceptionally talented and respectful young man, both on and off the field.”

Meanwhile, the Knights have re-signed back rower Brodie Jones for a further season.

Paul Alamoti celebrates winning the 2024 NRL grand final. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Newcastle director of football Peter Parr said Jones re-signing is a reward for consistency.

“Brodie has become a consistent NRL player over the past few years,” Parr said.

“He has a tremendous work ethic and in recent times has shown a genuine ability to come up with big plays at crucial moments. We look forward to him improving even further and the club is grateful he has chosen to continue his career with the Knights.”

Originally published as Sport Confidential: Laurie Daley’s NSW Blues TAB hurdle, Panthers extend grand final hero