Kiwis head coaching role advertised

IN WHAT could be the writing on the wall for Stephen Kearney, the New Zealand Rugby League has formally advertised the Kiwis head coaching role.

Kearney guided the Kiwis to their 2008 World Cup triumph – when he was assisted by Australian mastermind Wayne Bennett – and the 2010 Four Nations success. But, most recently, he was at the helm for the embarrassing 34-2 World Cup final demolition by Australia at Old Trafford in December last year.

Kearney’s contract ended after that tournament and, while he has indicated he will re-apply for his position, the NZRL is clearly after a change of direction.

‘‘Stephen has done a great job with the Kiwis, but this is a chance for us to test the market and see who else puts their hand up for the role,’’ NZRL chief executive Phil Holden said. ‘‘We have a big year in prospect and want a strong build-up towards what may well be a 2017 World Cup on home soil.’’

Applications for the Kiwis coaching position close on January 31, with a shortlist of candidates to be interviewed in early February and a recommendation made to the NZRL board mid-month.

Former Kiwis David Kidwell, currently the Wests Tigers assistant coach, and Richie Blackmore have been linked to the role, while former Warriors and current Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Clearly could also be in the mix.

The six-man selection panel consists of Holden, three NZRL board members – chairman Scott Carter, former Kiwis player Iva Ropati and former manager Ray Haffenden – high performance manager Tony Iro, and High Performance Sport NZ coaching consultant and world champion Black Sox softball coach Eddie Kohlhase.