Mal Meninga: Rugby league legend appointed head coach of NRL enlargement membership Perth Bears | Rugby League Information
Australia head coach and ex-Kangaroos and Queensland Origin star Mal Meninga has been unveiled because the Perth Bears ‘ inaugural head coach.
The 64-year-old Meninga signed a three-year contract with the brand new franchise, which means he could possibly be 69 when his contract expires in 2030.
He has been answerable for the worldwide group for eight years, bringing residence World Cup wins in 2017 and 2022. Nonetheless, it does imply he won’t be in cost for this Autumn’s Ashes collection in England.
Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur and Warrington Wolves head coach Sam Burgess have been additionally believed to be in competition for the job.
It’s not but recognized who will succeed Meninga for the Kangaroos as he takes cost of membership rugby for the primary time since 2001.
Meninga is likely one of the most embellished gamers and coaches in rugby league historical past, having coached Canberra (1997-2001) and Queensland (2006-2015) after taking part in 46 take a look at and World Cup matches for Australia’s Kangaroos, 32 State of Origin matches for Queensland and captaining the Raiders to 3 nationwide titles.
Earlier than turning into Kangaroos coach in 2016, Meninga led the Queensland Maroons to their most profitable interval in Origin historical past, successful 9 of his 10 collection in cost.
“That is larger than me,” Meninga stated Friday. “This new pioneering enterprise over to WA (Western Australia) and the chance to be concerned within the development of the sport, to develop a membership – the Perth Bears – is just too good to refuse. I really feel very honoured, very nervous, and I feel it is an enormous accountability.”
The game’s premier competitors originated in Sydney however has expanded to incorporate a group in New Zealand, a group within the Australian capital, Canberra, a group within the Victoria state capital, Melbourne, and 4 groups in Queensland state.
Perth Bears will enter the NRL from Australia’s west coast earlier than a group from rugby league-mad neighbouring Pacific nation Papua New Guinea, which is because of take part 2028 and make it a 19-team competitors. The league’s ambition is a 20-team format.
What’s subsequent?
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