Queensland assistant coach Josh Hannay is shaping as the leading contender to take over the Gold Coast Titans, with the club expected to part ways with Des Hasler at the end of the season.
Hannay has been a key figure behind Billy Slater’s Maroons in recent years and, after narrowly missing out on the Parramatta job to Jason Ryles in 2023, is now the hottest name in NRL coaching circles.
His likely exit would force Slater to once again reshape his support staff, just a year after replacing Cameron Smith.
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Coaching carousel could kick into gear
A seasoned assistant at both the Cowboys and Sharks, Hannay has also had two spells as a caretaker coach, guiding North Queensland and Cronulla through turbulent periods. Those stints, along with his growing reputation at Origin level, have seen his stock rise dramatically.
The Titans’ decision could have a knock-on effect across the NRL. Hannay’s former club, North Queensland, looms as a potential landing spot should they opt to move on from Todd Payten amid an inconsistent campaign.
He also shares strong ties with Knights boss Peter Parr from their time together at the Cowboys, although Newcastle aren’t expected to shift from Adam O’Brien just yet.
Should Hannay step up to a head coaching role, Slater will again need to rebuild his Maroons brain trust, with no Queensland coach having survived back-to-back series losses.