Brad Arthur eyes off new role; premiership winner’s surprise coaching resignation — NRL Daily

Brad Arthur could be set for a new coaching gig, with the former Parramatta Eels coach reportedly interested in an international coaching role.

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Sacked by the Eels in 2024 after more than a decade as their head coach, Arthur is showing a keen interest in the vacant head coaching position ahead of the upcoming 2026 Rugby League World Cup, per Love Rugby League.

Currently with the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League, Arthur won more than 50 per cent of the matches during his time in the NRL at the Eels and helped guide them to the 2022 NRL Grand Final against the Panthers.

It is understood that former Australia Kangaroos assistant coach Willie Peters is also interested in the job and is the early frontrunner to succeed sacked England coach Shaun Wane.

Other names that have been linked to the position include Gold Coast Titans assistant coach Brian McDermott, ex-Rabbitohs premiership winner Sam Burgess and NRL player turned media personality James Graham.

JAMIE SOWARD STEPS DOWN AS COACH OF FETU SAMOA

Elsewhere, after taking Samoa from 20th to 5th in the Women’s International Rugby League World Rankings, Jamie Soward has officially resigned as head coach of the national team.

The surprising decision comes months away from the start of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, where Samoa will face Australia in the opening match on the women’s side of the tournament.

In a statement, the former St George Illawarra Dragons premiership-winner announced that a career change and shift in personal priorities were the main reasons behind his resignation.

“Thank you for the opportunity, the trust and the memories,” Soward said in a statement.

“I will always be proud of my association with Rugby League Samoa and my association with the Fetu Samoa program.”

The departure of Soward means Samoa are the third international team on the lookout for a new coach with France and Papua New Guinea parting ways with their head coaches late last year.

“While we are sorry to see Sowie go, we respect his decision and understand the importance of doing what’s best for him, his new role and especially his family,” Rugby League Samoa president Ponifasio Vasa added.

“We appreciate all his efforts and work during his tenure, and acknowledge the foundations he and his team paved to ensure the success of the team moving forward.

“One thing that is clear about Sowie, he is very passionate about the game. Once a Fetu, always a Fetu.”