Michael Maguire has been officially unveiled as the new coach of the Brisbane Broncos after agreeing on an early release from his current deal with the NSWRL.
After taking out the 2024 State of Origin series on his first attempt, a return to the NRL as a coach seemed likely but with 12 months remaining on his current deal, many expected him to see it out.
With the Blues already favoured to take out the 2025 series under Madge’s tutelage, the decision from the NSWRL to let him leave early caught many by surprise.
Former Queensland Maroon Mat Rogers revealed his disbelief in the decision considering the immediate success Maguire had in the role.
“It’s astonishing really,” Rogers said on SEN 1170 Sportsday.
“NSW, it’s no secret that in the past they’ve been criticised for not getting Origin and the like.
“Madge comes in and he seems like he’s built for it, he’s an elite coach.
“It’s a big part of the game, State of Origin and they’re going to let him walk away… he must’ve had a clause if a full-time opportunity came up with a club.”
Rogers also conceded that he is still coming to grips with the sacking of Kevvie Walters and pondered the rapid movement from the Broncos to appoint Maguire five days later.
“I’m still at a loss with this Kevvie Walters situation,” Rogers added.
“I know we heard that he had the support, this has all just happened so quickly, I guess if you’re going to do it, it's better to just cut it off and move on.
“I’m still a little blown away by it.”
Brisbane confirmed Maguire’s appointment on a three-year deal on Tuesday morning.