Ivan Cleary Bows Out of NSW Origin Race as Blues Scramble for New Coach

Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has reportedly withdrawn from the race to become the next New South Wales State of Origin coach. Cleary, who has led Penrith to four consecutive NRL grand finals, winning three, is laser-focused on chasing an unprecedented fifth-straight premiership.

His ambition for continued success, along with the grueling demands of a long NRL season and heavy travel schedule, have contributed to his decision to step away from Origin coaching talks.

The NSW Blues are still searching for a successor to Michael Maguire, who resigned from his post after a challenging campaign. Cleary’s decision leaves a shrinking list of viable options, as other high-profile candidates have also distanced themselves from the role.

Despite the Blues’ struggles in recent series, the job remains a prestigious one, and the pressure is mounting to find a coach capable of reclaiming dominance over Queensland in the Origin arena. With Cleary out, the field narrows for NSW’s next leader.