Phil Gould has backed Wayne Bennett to return to the Kangaroos coach role as the Australian Rugby League Commission mulls over its Mal Meninga replacement.
Under the current rules set by the commission, the national coach can’t also be a head coach of an NRL team.
However, South Sydney coach Bennett’s name has been floated while Cameron Smith and Kevin Walters are believed to be the other contenders.
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Wayne Bennett during his time as Kangaroos coach. Getty
Brad Fittler withdrew his own name from the conversation last week.
Smith has previously said he hasn’t been approached by the NRL about doing the job.
On Nine’s 100% Footy, journalist Michael Chammas revealed the commission will meet on Wednesday to vote on whether the rule will change.
He said it’s “unlikely”.
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On July 1, Gould was asked on X about the eligibility requirements and replied with his trademark “don’t start me”.
On 100% Footy, the league expert hadn’t changed his approach when asked if Bennett should coach.
“I can’t see why not. I really can’t see why not,” he said.
“I don’t know why it changed back in the old days, they’re the best coaches, they’re the ones with the best jobs, they’re the ones equipped to do it so I can’t see why they wouldn’t allow it.”
Bennett last coached the Kangaroos in 2005.
Australia will assemble a squad to contest the rugby league Ashes against England following the NRL season.
