NRL

Now it makes sense.

A few days ago Wayne Bennett withdrew his name from the running to replace Billy Slater as Queensland State of Origin coach in 2027 — despite having previously indicated otherwise.

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“If Queensland need me, I’ll go back and help, but I don’t want to be the head coach,” Bennett said.

“Let’s give someone else a job and maybe I can help him.”

We now know that ‘someone’ happens to be a former player famously and deeply connected to Bennett himself, Darius Boyd who has been unveiled as the new Maroons head coach, elevated from the Queensland Under 19 coaching role where he oversaw consecutive victories over New South Wales.

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Bennett famously coached Boyd, 39, for the bulk of his 341-game NRL career, with the player following his mentor from the Broncos to the Dragons to the Knights and finally back to Red Hill.

While the QRL made no reference to Bennett in today’s announcement, it seems short odds the 76-year-old is set to play some role in the Maroons set up next season as Boyd and Co attempt to win back the State of Origin Shield after losing 2-1 to NSW in 2026.

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Boyd played 28 matches for Queensland between 2008-2017 scoring 17 tries, and was a key part of the Maroons dynasty that won eight straight Origin series between 2006-2013.

“It’s a privileged position and I’m very grateful for the opportunity,” Boyd said of his appointment on a two-year deal.

“I understand the responsibility that comes with the role as well. My job is to build on the legacy created by the many great Queensland players and coaches who have come before us.”

Boyd’s appointment means next year’s State of Origin series will feature two rookie head coaches with Matt King having been appointed to replace Laurie Daley for NSW last month.

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