NRL
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"He'll do anything": Souths open for Bennett to assist Boyd
By Nicholas Quinlan
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Having coached the Maroons in eight State of Origin series, resulting in five series wins, there are few who understand what it takes to coach Queensland like Wayne Bennett.
And should Darius Boyd require assistance from the supercoach in his new role as Queensland coach, Bennett’s current employer in South Sydney will not stand in his way, according to CEO Blake Solly.
During the QRL’s coaching search to replace Billy Slater, Bennett had been vocal about coaching the Maroons should they be unable to find a candidate, alongside helping whoever is appointed to the role, which was Boyd as of Thursday.
The 2010 Clive Churchill Medallist shares a special bond with the 76-year-old, having played under him in 13 of his 15 seasons in the NRL across the Broncos, Dragons and Knights, seeing the pair win two premierships with Brisbane and St. George Illawarra.
Since being appointed to the role, Boyd has already stated that he would be stupid not to seek his advice.
"He is the super coach. I would be silly not to get his advice on things." Boyd said.
And with Bennett having a deep love for both the legendary fullback and his state, Solly was happy for their head coach to assist the newly appointed coach.
“I think anyone who knows Wayne knows he'll do anything for Queensland,” he explained on SEN’s Kick Off.
“He said last week that he didn't think he was the right man to be the coach, but he would happily assist anyone who was.
“I'm sure that given that relationship between Darius and Wayne, there'll be lots of conversations and lots of opportunities to help.
“I think Wayne was a backer of Billy as well. I know they spoke regularly about the team and the preparation.
“So, Wayne, being the Queenslander he is, will always want to help out and make sure that they beat New South Wales next season.
“So, he'll certainly be involved somewhere.”
2027 will see Queensland and NSW with brand new coaches for the series, with the Blues appointing Matt King to replace Laurie Daley.
