Wayne: No Kevvie feud

Bennett rubbishes talk as Walters back at Broncs

WAYNE Bennett has rubbished claims he fell out with Kevin Walters and says the Maroons coach’s return to the Broncos is evidence their 32year friendship remains intact.

Walters will reprise his role as Bennett’s assistant at the Broncos next month, adding another chapter to one of league’s most fascinating tales.

As a player, Walters, one of Brisbane’s favourite sons, won five premierships under Bennett but their relationship suffered a major ruction when the champion playmaker joined the coaching ranks.

Bennett sacked Walters as his assistant in 2005, insisting he needed to leave the club to broaden his skill set. At the time, Walters said he was axed because he wasn’t a “yes man”.

Tensions then resurfaced earlier this year when Bennett’s Broncos and Walters’ Maroons were embroiled in a selection tug of war over Brisbane star Anthony Milford.

Bennett’s sacking of Walters more than a decade ago has fuelled a perception that there is a deep wound that can never be truly healed but the Broncos coach insists talk of a toxic rift is purely speculative.

“I’m at war with everybody if you believe the headlines,” Bennett said.

“I’ve only ever had Kevin’s best interests at heart.

“I’ve had an association with him since 1985 when I coached him in a Queensland under-19s side. I took Kevvie to Canberra and brought him back to Brisbane. We have been friends for many years and our relationship is strong.”

When Walters accepted the Maroons post in 2015, Bennett advised him he could not continue as his assistant. Asked why he is now allowing Walters to return, Bennett argued the landscape has shifted.

“Kevin has done two years at Origin level, he has won both series so he is more experienced now,” Bennett said.

“I’ve assured Kevvie and the Queensland Rugby League that his role at the Broncos won’t impact on his commitments to the Maroons. “

1987:

Bennett takes the reins at Canberra, with Brisbane Norths utility Walters following

Walters, now an Origin player, moves to Bennett’s Broncos to play five-eighth Walters named coach of feeder team Toowoomba Bennett sacks assistant Walters as part of big cleanout Walters reunites with Broncos as halves coach

1990: 2001: 2005: 2014: