Brad Fittler believes a shorter contract term could allow a current NRL coach to lead the NSW Blues in State of Origin after his shock exit during the week.
Fittler opted not to accept a one-year deal with the Blues and has now revealed on Nine's Sports Sunday that NSWRL management is only offering a five-month term to whoever his successor is.
Asked who he thought might coach the team, the league great said he had "no idea" but earmarked an opportunity for an incumbent NRL head coach.
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"They've changed their protocols on what their coach is going to look like, from a point of view of how long," Fittler explained.
"Their contract is going to be a five-month contract I believe – that's what they told me.
"I think they're trying to open the door maybe to a club coach possibly taking the reins.
"That'll be up to them. They'll be sitting there working out what they think is best for the organisation and the team."
While Fittler has parted company with the Blues, the Queensland Maroons look set to continue with Johnathan Thurston under Billy Slater's wing.
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Thurston said he'll be back as an assistant coach with the Maroons if the team wants him.
"That's an easy decision. I'm Maroon to the bone," he told Sports Sunday.
"If Billy asks me, I'm back there next year."
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