South Sydney have moved to extend the contract of veteran coach Wayne Bennett until at least the end of the 2028 season.
Bennett, who is just seven months into a three-year stint, has been told the club wants to ensure he stays at the Rabbitohs for the rest of his career. The club will wait until the end of the season to begin formal negotiations.
Bennett has indicated to those close to him that he wants to continue working beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of the 2027 season.
He has already been floated as the potential inaugural coach of the Papua New Guinea franchise, which is set to enter the competition in 2028.
But the Rabbitohs, who have been impressed with how Bennett has galvanised the club since his return last summer, want him to stay in the cardinal and myrtle, believing he can lead them to a premiership over the next few years.
“Wayne and our staff have done a tremendous job in difficult circumstances this season,” South Sydney chief executive Blake Solly said.
Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett.Credit: Getty Images
“We can also understand why [Australian Rugby League Commission chairman] Peter V’landys and the commission are keen to have Wayne involved in the new club based out of Port Moresby.
“We will sit down with Wayne at the end of the season and talk about an extension. He is contracted until the end of the 2027 season. Hopefully, he wants to continue coaching in the NRL beyond that point – and with the Rabbitohs”.
Bennett has a close relationship with V’landys, who will lead the task of finding the coach for the Papua New Guinean-based side.
“Yes, we’ve talked about it [the PNG team],” Bennett told News Corp earlier in the week.
South Sydney chief executive Blake Solly.Credit: Nick Moir
“We’ll just see where I am in a couple of years. I will see where I’m at and where PNG is at. I’ve got to sort myself out. I have great respect for Peter V’landys and I’ll help the game out if I can, but I’m not going to do anything right now.
“I’m still contracted for a few years here at Souths, so I’ve got to do my time here and we’ll see what happens.”
The Rabbitohs currently sit in 16th position but a win against Bennett’s old side the Dolphins on Saturday night could see them climb significantly up the ladder given the close nature of this year’s competition.
The Rabbitohs have once again been decimated by injuries this year, but Bennett has brought a sense of calmness and confidence to the club that hasn’t been lost on those in charge.
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