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Australian rugby league Immortal and Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has backed Michael Maguire to take charge of the New South Wales Blues.
In spite of Maguire’s repeated insistence that his sole focus is leading the Kiwis, the former NRL coach is being touted as Brad Fittler’s replacement at the helm of the Blues.
Speaking ahead of Australia’s battle with New Zealand in the Pacific Cup final on Saturday, Meninga trusted that Maguire could balance both jobs.
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“He is a great man, Madge,” he told media on Friday.
“Obviously he is [from] New South Wales … so I think if given the job he will do a terrific job. I think he’s a great representative coach as well, so he’ll bring the best out of those fellas. But that’s not my decision.”
As the most successful coach in State of Origin history with nine series victories and chasing a 24th win in his 26th Test match with the Kangaroos, Meninga understands what makes a winning formula.
Asked what is the key to coaching success at rep level, Meninga put it all down to showing enthusiasm.
“You’ve got to be passionate, [representative football] was born out of passion,” he said.
“I was lucky enough to play that first ever game [under State of Origin selection rules] and the enormity of that sort of changed the face of interstate footy.”
Meninga may also be setting New South Welshman Dylan Edwards up for his Origin debut, naming the Panthers’ fullback out of position on the wing for Australia.
“His form in the NRL over the last few years deserves the opportunity to play rep football,” Meninga said.
Watch the Kangaroos take on New Zealand in the 2023 Pacific Championships final on Nine and 9Now
Unable to break into the side at fullback, Edwards said he would be to don the No.2 jersey for his state.
“I’d put my hand up to play anywhere,” he said.
“If I was to get that opportunity in the state side, I’d definitely take it.”
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