Kevin Walters has been hit with a blow ahead of the Ashes series, with the Kangaroos coach’s plan to bring Gorden Tallis into camp rejected by the NRL.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the plan was for Tallis to be involved as a cultural figurehead as part of Walters’ support staff for the tour.
Walters wanted his former Broncos teammate to be part of the group and help the current players understand the importance of wearing the green and gold jersey.
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Tallis is a former Kangaroos captain but that wasn’t enough to convince NRL officials to green-light the position, deeming it unnecessary for the squad.
Gorden Tallis in his role as an NRL sideline eye. Getty
Those who made the call see Walters – who landed the gig after Mal Meninga stepped down to become Perth Bears coach – possess enough knowledge and passion for the Kangaroos jumper to educate the players on what it means to play in the Ashes.
Walters was also keen to bring in Broncos assistants Trent Barrett and Ben Te’o for the series, but the NRL will be looking to lean away from having club-affiliated coaches involved in the national team set-up moving forward.
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Instead, coaches who are currently in the Super League could factor into discussions, opening the door for the likes of Willie Peters, Brad Arthur and Adrian Lam.
Justin Holbrook was part of Meninga’s coaching staff last year, but could be overlooked due to his affiliation with the Sydney Roosters under the new edict.
The series between Australia and England kicks off on October 25 at Wembley Stadium.