The Algorithm Age

Calls are growing for the NRL and ARL Commission to change the rules around the Kangaroos coaching role, with Wayne Bennett blocked from taking the job while he's South Sydney coach. The NRL is on the hunt for a new Kangaroos coach after Mal Meninga was forced to relinquish the role when he signed on to become the Perth Bears' inaugural mentor. Brad Fittler was thought to be the front-runner to replace Meninga, but the former NSW coach withdrew from contention this week. It's now believed to be a two-horse race between Queensland greats Cameron Smith and Kevin Walters . Legendary coach Bennett was said to be interested in the Kangaroos job, especially with the return of the Ashes series against England later this year. But the ARL Commission has effectively banned Bennett from taking the role due to his affiliation with Souths. The Commission has always insisted the Kangaroos coach doesn't hold a role with an NRL team, as they don...

Queensland captain Cameron Munster has endorsed his former teammate and NRL great Cameron Smith as a top candidate to take over the head coaching role for the national side. Smith is firming as a strong favourite to become the next Kangaroos coach - after Mal Meninga stepped down to coach the Perth Bears - after Brad Fittler's surprise decision to drop out of the race. Fittler confirmed he was committed to his media roles and wasn't prepared to take on the Australian coaching role with the Ashes tour coming up at the end of the NRL season. Smith and Kevin Walters are now believed to be the leading candidates for the role, with the international schedule starting in October. Smith already opened up about his interest in the role, but admitted he had similar reservations and would have to weigh-up the commitment. While Smith has not met with any Australian Rugby League official about the role, he has already received a glowing endorsement from some of...