Wests embrace Maguire’s Kiwis job

SYDNEY: Michael Maguire’s decision to stay on as Kiwis coach could give the Wests Tigers a competitive advantage with the country’s huge production line, according to chief executive Justin Pascoe.

Maguire arrived for his first day of work at the Tigers on Monday, fresh from a sevenweek stint with New Zealand both at home and in the United Kingdom.

The former South Sydney coach had been adamant throughout his search for a new job that sticking with the Kiwis would have to form part of it.

Maguire refused to rule out the possibility of luring Kiwis players to the Tigers in the coming years. Benji Marshall, Esan Marsters and Elijah Taylor are already at the club.

And Pascoe admitted it could present the Tigers with an advantage they would be willing to use.

‘‘We spoke about it through the process and certainly our position was we felt that he would get not only personal development but professional development through coaching the NZ squad,’’ Pascoe said.

‘‘And again alluding to the fact he is going to be in a market that

is a strong market around the production of players.’’

Maguire’s decision to share the two roles will make him one of the busiest mentors in the NRL next year.

The Kiwis will play Tonga in a midyear test during the representative round, and will face the Kangaroos once at the end of the year, as well as Great Britain up to twice.

But the renowned hardworking Maguire is undeterred by his 2019 schedule.

‘‘Across the international teams now, Mal has got the Kangaroos and he’s with the Titans. Wayne is with England,’’ Maguire said.

‘‘We’ve got one test match in the middle of the year and obviously test matches at the end.’’ — AAP