Lockyer lined up for Queensland job

Darren Lockyer is being lined up to be the long term successor of Mal Meninga as Queensland State of Origin coach, according to Australian newspaper Courier Mail.

The former Australia, Queensland and Brisbane captain, who retired following the Four Nations, could be brought in to the fold by Meninga, who recently signed a new four-year deal to coach the Maroons.

It is believed that Lockyer is being lined up for a role on the Channel 9 commentary team and while he has ruled out a full-time coaching role, involvement with the Queensland origin set up could suit the 34-year-old.

Meninga was quoted as saying: “Darren is a fantastic link between the past and the present. Someone of his ilk would be ideal.

“It’s something we have to discuss with the Queensland Rugby League, and ultimately it is their decision, along with Darren.

“I haven’t discussed things with Darren yet, and I understand he is keen to have a year or two out of footy. But he could easily be my successor.”

Queensland have won the last six Origin series, while Lockyer played 36 times for the state during his career.