Walters leaving Broncos ... again

THE Broncos have been rocked by club legend Kevin Walters’ sudden departure as Wayne Bennett’s assistant coach.

Walters parted ways with the Broncos yesterday, just four rounds into the NRL season, and his first year back at the club.

It is the third time Walters and Bennett’s alliance has broken down, the first being in 2005 when Bennett sacked his right- hand man.

Walters rejoined the Broncos in 2015, helping the club to the grand final, before assuming the Queensland Origin head coach’s role in 2016.

Bennett did not allow Walters to retain his assistant coach role for two years, eventually bringing back the premiership winner this season.

However, the arrangement has broken down again, Walters citing his Origin commitments for his departure.

“Yesterday, I attended the launch of the State of Origin series in Melbourne and the level of interest at the media conference reinforced how privileged I am to be coach of a Maroons team which means so much to the people of Queensland,” Walters said in a statement.

“It also reinforced Origin’s immense standing in the game, and the importance of having a clear- minded approach to all aspects of the Queensland team’s preparations.

“I felt that my direct link to the Broncos may influence the perception of my impartiality and as a result of these factors I have made the decision to step away from the club to focus solely on the State of Origin.

“I wish everyone involved with the Broncos every success for the remainder of the 2018 season.”

Bennett said he respected Walters’ decision and his honesty in making the Broncos aware of his position as soon as possible.

“I know personally the amount of work it takes to be a successful coach at Origin level and I can understand why Kevin has come to this decision,” Bennett said.