Kevin Walters is on track to become the next coach of the Australian Kangaroos, as reported by CODE Sports today, with an official announcement expected soon from the ARLC.
His appointment is set to cover this year’s three-Test Ashes series in England, though his future beyond that remains open-ended.
The role became available after Mal Meninga stepped aside to take up the head coaching position with the Perth Bears, the NRL’s incoming expansion team, and is also in line with the NR's track record of not appointing current NRL club coaches into the national job.
Walters emerged as the leading candidate after Brad Fittler opted not to pursue the job due to existing media commitments, and Cameron Smith showed interest but was seemingly not formally approached.
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With other options fading, Walters seems to have quickly become the frontrunner, likely due to both his playing and coaching representative experience, and has reportedly agreed to a short-term deal for the 2025 tour.
This will mark his first time coaching at the international level, though his resume includes guiding Queensland in State of Origin and leading the Broncos to a grand final appearance in 2023.
Despite stepping back into a media role with Fox League this season, Walters has made no secret of his desire to return to coaching.
The Ashes tour presents a huge opportunity, especially after Walters' highly publicised and unceremonious exit from his last head coaching role at the Broncos.
It appears the ARLC has yet to decide on a long-term coach, and Walters’ performance in England will likely influence that outcome.
Walters’ familiarity with many senior players—particularly those from Queensland—could help create immediate cohesion in the squad, and he already has existing relationships with many incumbent Kangaroos.
This short-term coaching role may end up being the gateway to a new era in Walters’ coaching career after a short stint on the sidelines, so no doubt he will be out to impress in the end-of-year series.