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Why 'logical solution' is firming as favourite for Kangaroos job
Nicholas Quinlan • July 18th, 2025 11:27 am
The Daily Telegraph’s Michael Carayannis has backed Brisbane Broncos legend Kevin Walters to become the next Kangaroos coach.
The position has remained vacant since Mal Meninga was officially announced as the head coach of the Perth Bears last month. This meant, as per the ARLC rules, he was no longer allowed to hold that position.
Since that vacancy, it has led to many rumours as to who could fill the position, with the likes of Cameron Smith, Brad Fittler, Wayne Bennett and Walters all having been floated as potential coaches.
But it appears that Walters has become the favourite for the position following reports that the ARLC have recommitted to the view that the Australian coach cannot be a current NRL coach, which rules Bennett out of the position.
And according to Carayannis, it’s now Walters’ job to lose.
“It sort of puts Kevvie Walters at the front of the queue, boys, for what the commission is looking for,” Carayannis said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“I think it’s his job now. He’s coached Queensland to a couple of series wins, has coached Brisbane to a grand final (and is a) decorated player in his own right.
“It looks like Kevie Walters is most likely going to be the next Kangaroos coach.”
While the decision has not been confirmed yet, Carayannis believes that the experience Walters has by coaching both Queensland and the Brisbane Broncos has held him in good stead compared to Smith, who has not had any prior coaching experience.
“With respect to Cam, I think they want someone who has coached at a representative level and had success at the NRL level,” he explained.
“I think that is part of the prerequisite, rightly or wrongly, that’s what they are looking for.
“So, if you break it down, who really is out there aside from Kevie that fits that?
“He seems like the logical solution, considering they want to go down the path of having a club coach.”
A decision on the coaching is expected to be made within the next few weeks as Australia begins its preparations for its first Ashes series in 22 years following the end of the NRL season.
The Kangaroos will kick-start the three-match Ashes series against England at Wembley Stadium on October 25 (October 26 in Australia).
They will also play at Everton’s new home ground in Hill Dickinson Stadium and Headingley Stadium in Leeds, which have both sold out, showing the excitement for the tour.
