The Rabbitohs have confirmed their desire to sign coach Wayne Bennett to an extension beyond his current deal.
Bennett is under contract with the Bunnies until the end of 2027. The ARL Commission are on the record saying they want Bennett to lead the PNG expansion side when they enter the competition in 2028, but Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly is hoping to keep the legendary coach in red and myrtle.
“We understand the ARLC will be interested in Wayne taking a role with the PNG team but we are very keen for him to stay beyond his current deal,” Solly toldThe Daily Telegraph.
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“Hopefully we’ll have those discussions over this off-season.”
It is understood the Rabbitohs want to strike a deal with Bennett before Christmas, but they will have some opposition.
NRL boss Peter V’landys says if Bennett’s available, he’ll be “the first bloke” called regarding a gig with the PNG Chiefs.
The two parties are reportedly in talks, but while V’landys would prefer Bennett as coach, the Souths boss is reportedly more interested in a consultancy role.
“Yes, we want Wayne Bennett involved,” V’landys told The Daily Telegraph.
“You can ask Wayne if he wants to coach, but we will use him in whatever capacity would be suitable to him.”