Maguire to combine New Zealand role with new NRL coaching job
New Zealand have given coach Michael Maguire their full backing after he accepted the head coaches job at NRL side Wests Tigers.
Maguire, 44, took on the top job with the Kiwis back in May, having left his role at South Sydney at the end of 2017.
He took charge of them for the first time in the 36-18 defeat to England in the Denver test match back in June.
The former Wigan coach’s appointment as Wests head coach was confirmed shortly after the Kiwis fell to an 18-16 defeat to England in the first test of the autumn series.
NZRL CEO, Greg Peters, said: “We were aware when we appointed Michael that this was the likely outcome.
“He made it clear to us from the outset that he wanted to coach in the NRL again as well as
coach the Kiwis. He wants to develop a winning culture that takes us to the World Cup.
“We congratulate Madge on his appointment. He knows we have confidence in him being
able to continue his vital role with the Kiwis in the current series against England and in the
years to come.”
Maguire has signed a three-year deal with Wests and will take charge following the Kiwis’ test series in England, which continues with tests in Liverpool and Leeds.
