Legendary Coach Wayne Bennett Reportedly Set to Join South Sydney Rabbitohs
According to reports, former England boss Wayne Bennett has agreed to a $3 million deal that would see him become the new head coach of the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the upcoming NRL season. The move comes after a disappointing start to the current campaign for the Rabbitohs, who sit at the bottom of the NRL Premiership table following the sacking of previous head coach Jason Demetriou last month.
Optimism Surrounds South Sydney’s Future Prospects
Despite losing their last two matches against St George Illawarra Dragons and Penrith Panthers, there is already a sense of optimism surrounding South Sydney’s future prospects. The club has reportedly signed St Helens star Lewis Dodd to a long-term deal, and will now look to the legendary Bennett to turn their fortunes around.
“While the deal has not yet been officially signed, Rabbitohs officials traveled to Queensland earlier this week to finalize the terms with the 74-year-old coach.”
Bennett’s Impressive Coaching Resume
Bennett, who is currently in the final year of his contract with fellow NRL side The Dolphins, is widely regarded as one of the greatest head coaches in rugby league history, having won a record six NRL Premierships with the Brisbane Broncos and one with St George Illawarra.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Deal
However, the experienced mentor has a history of last-minute changes in his decision-making, having previously gone back on verbal agreements to join the Rabbitohs’ cross-town rivals, the Sydney Roosters, as well as St George Illawarra. Bennett has since expressed some doubt over the deal, stating that he has only had preliminary talks with South Sydney and that they will meet again next week to finalize the agreement.
The situation surrounding David Fifita’s aborted move to the Roosters may also cause the Rabbitohs to exercise caution, as the Tongan international had a verbal agreement to join the club before expressing doubts about his decision. Despite the uncertainty, South Sydney fans will be hopeful that Bennett can bring his wealth of experience and expertise to the club and guide them to their first NRL Premiership since 2014.
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