Cameron Smith has made the shock call to stand down from his assistant coaching role with the Queensland Maroons.
The legendary hooker has been part of the coaching staff alongside long-time teammate Billy Slater for the past two years, leading the side to consecutive Origin series wins.
Smith has opted to move into grassroots coaching, with a statement from Queensland Rugby League on Wednesday night confirming his departure.
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"I'm very grateful to Billy and the QRL for the opportunity to be a part of the Queensland coaching team," he said.
"It's been a fantastic two series working with quality players. They're quality people to work with and they've certainly helped me as a rookie assistant coach.
"I was lucky enough to represent the jersey many times but to experience it from a different lens as a coach, and being able to watch this new generation play the way they did and represent the state in the manner in which they did, was highly rewarding.
"This year I've decided to coach at grassroots level at the Currumbin Eagles. I feel it's really important to get back to grassroots level because that's where our next generation of players come from."
Smith played 42 games for the Maroons during his illustrious on-field career before deciding to hang up the boots at the end of 2020 after Melbourne's premiership win.
Slater paid tribute to his former Storm and Queensland partner for his incredible commitment to the state's success.
"I don't know if there's anyone who has contributed more to the Queensland Origin team than Cam Smith," the head coach said.
"I'm extremely grateful for his contribution over the last two series. He's done an incredible job which I've seen first hand inside the camp."
Matt Ballin will replace Smith on the coaching staff for this year's campaign.
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