Green knocks back Queensland job

North Queensland Cowboys head coach Paul Green has pledged his future to the club despite interest to replace Mal Meninga as Queensland coach. 

With Meninga leaving Queensland to take up the role as Australia head coach, the top position at the Maroons is now vacant with Green being seen as the number one choice for the job. 

But despite being flattered by the interest, Green has admitted that the timing just wasn’t right and has committed his future for at least the next 12 months with the Cowboys. 

“I’ve decided to concentrate on coaching the Cowboys in season 2016, putting all my energies into having another succesful season,” he told the NRL official website. 

“I want to thank everyone who has supported me through this process, however the timing around coaching State of Origin next year just wasn’t quite right. From a personal point of view, the decision that I’ve made will be the best thing for all parties next year.”

Green has made it know that coaching the Maroons is something he will want to pursue in the future, having represented Queensland seven times during his time as player, and has added that his passion for Origin is still as strong as ever. 

“As a past State of Origin player, I remain as passionate as ever about the Maroons and remain hopeful of again getting such a treasured opportunity,” he said.

“I can’t thank the QRL enough for considering me for this role.”

Queensland managing director Robert Moore has said that despite his disappointment at Green’s final decision, he wished him and the Cowboys well for the upcoming season.

“We respect and support Paul’s decision to concetrate on the Cowboys as the club prepares for its Premiership defence,” he said. 

“The QRL understand the enormous public interest surrounding the appointment of Mal’s successor and will continue with the process. However, it’s unlikely that we’ll have decision until the New Year.”