South Sydney Rabbitohs Seek Experienced Coach as Demetriou Departs
In a significant coaching shake-up, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have parted ways with head coach Jason Demetriou, with former England boss Wayne Bennett emerging as the front-runner to take over the reins at the club.
Demetriou’s position had been increasingly precarious in recent weeks, with speculation that he would be sacked even before the team’s recent bye. However, a last-minute reprieve saw Australian coach Mal Meninga decline the opportunity to step in. This temporary stay of execution was short-lived, as the Rabbitohs’ Anzac Day defeat to Cronulla Sharks proved to be the final straw, leading to Demetriou’s dismissal earlier today.
Interim Coach and Potential Bennett Return
In the interim, South Sydney have appointed Ben Hornby as the head coach until the end of the season. This move has fueled speculation that the legendary Wayne Bennett could be set for a sensational return to the Bunnies, the club he led to the 2021 Grand Final. Respected pundits like James Graham and Braith Anasta have hinted that the signing of St Helens halfback Lewis Dodd for 2025 could be linked to a potential Bennett appointment, given the coach’s extensive connections in the English game.
“The South Sydney hierarchy is determined to bring Bennett back on board for the 2024 season and beyond.” – Phil Rothfield
Bennett’s Departure and Potential Return
Bennett, one of the sport’s most accomplished coaches, departed South Sydney at the conclusion of the 2021 season, after a near-perfect campaign that saw the Rabbitohs fall agonizingly short in the Grand Final against the Penrith Panthers. The veteran mentor then took charge of the NRL’s newest franchise, the Redcliffe Dolphins, but is set to depart that role at the end of the current season.
With Kristian Woolf, Bennett’s assistant at the Dolphins, already confirmed as the club’s new head coach, the path appears clear for the iconic 73-year-old to make a triumphant return to the Rabbitohs.
🔗 Source
