The path is clear for Michael Maguire to coach NSW after he quit as coach of New Zealand.
Maguire, who earlier this month coached the Kiwis to a stunning win over the Kangaroos in the final of the inaugural Pacific Championships, had been given an ultimatum by New Zealand officials.
They had asked the 49-year-old, who was offered the role with the NSW Blues, to decide between state or country declaring there was a potential conflict of interest.
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Amid a concerted push by former New Zealand players for Maguire to choose one of the other, he quit his job with the Kiwis on Friday.
“The mana, history and whakapapa associated with the Black and White jersey mean any role in and around the Kiwi team is the ultimate privilege. Michael’s dedication to the role and players has seen him achieve incredible things over the last six years,” NZRL CEO Greg Peters said in a statement.
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“Michael is the ultimate professional and has connected deeply with the NZRL whānau and playing group. We wish him nothing but success in his next career step.”
The NSWRL on Friday confirmed no decision would be made on the new coach until next week.
Maguire’s departure follows the Kiwis’ historic 30-0 win over the Kangaroos in Hamilton on November 4, Australia’s biggest ever defeat in a test.