The New Zealand Rugby League board have announced Michael Maguire will remain as head coach for the Kiwis’ 2025 World Cup Campaign.
The 49-year-old was handed the reins in 2018 before the Kiwis were bundled out of the 2021 World Cup in the semi finals, going down to the Kangaroos 16-14.
Mal Meninga’s side went on to win the World Cup, and New Zealand rugby league bosses are confident Maguire is the man to deliver a title in 2025.
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“Since Michael came on board, NZRL and the Kiwi playing group have made significant strides since their last World Cup appearance,” NZRL chief executive Greg Peters said in a statement.
“No doubt the semi-final heartbreak still stings, but the growth the squad has experienced under Michael gives the board confidence he is the coach to lead the Kiwis to victory in 2025.”
Maguire is also backing the Kiwis to lift the trophy in France in 2025 and said the squad had “unfinished business”.
“We have achieved enormous growth since 2017,” Maguire said.
“To be only inches away from the final still hurts, however, this playing group is more determined than ever to take home a World Cup for themselves, their families and their country.
“There is a strong culture among the boys, the passion for the Black and White jersey is undeniable, couple that with the exciting talent coming through, we’re in a positive place.
“No doubt, there’s unfinished business.
“Thank you to the NZRL Board for continuing their faith in me as Head Coach. It’s a privilege to coach this Kiwi team, and I’m confident in what we can achieve over the next three years.”
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New Zealand’s rugby league boss also backed the introduction of annual international fixtures.
“The lead-up to the 2022 campaign was heavily disrupted due to Covid, with New Zealand not playing Australia since 2019. The added delay of the 2021 tournament means there’s only a two-year window before the next RLWC,” Peters said.
“Consistency and yearly international programmes have never been more important.
“We need an annual end-of-year International competition with regular Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns Tests that become permanent fixtures in the rugby league calendar.
“We’re working closely with the NRL and IRL to flesh out what this looks like and will be in a position to announce the 2023 International programme soon.”
Meanwhile, Kiwi Ferns head coach Ricky Henry has also been handed an extension.
“It’s an exciting time to be involved in women’s rugby league and a privilege to lead the Kiwi Ferns through to 2025,” Henry said.
“The women’s game is evolving rapidly, and I’m determined to create the best pathways to nurture and develop New Zealand’s female talent. My focus will be getting us back to number 1 in the world and bringing that World Cup trophy back home to New Zealand.”
