Blues announce King as new Origin coach after Daley steps down

Matt King has been named the new head coach of the New South Wales (NSW) men's State of Origin rugby league team, taking over from Laurie Daley. Daley stepped down on Monday, having guided the Blues to a series win over Queensland earlier this year. King, who played nine matches for the Blues between 2005 and 2007 and has served as an assistant coach since 2024, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. "I'm very clear on what it looks like to be the head coach of NSW," King stated, emphasizing his understanding of the role's significance. "The one true rugby league love of my life has been the NSW Blues. To know now that I have the opportunity to guide the team moving forward, to lead the program over the next little period, means the absolute world to me." King has also been a long-time assistant coach under Trent Robinson at the Sydney Roosters. Daley, in his statement, reflected on his tenure, calling it an "absolute honour and privilege" to be involved with the team. He expressed pride in the players' resilience during the 2026 series and thanked the fans for their support, considering the series win a fitting way to conclude his time as coach.

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I'm very clear on what it looks like to be the head coach of NSW.