The NRL have reportedly formally interviewed two candidates for the vacant Perth Bears head coach role, with both Mal Meninga and Brad Arthur in contention to lead the new franchise.
According to the SMH, Meninga and Arthur both held Zoom interviews with rugby league powerbrokers on Thursday afternoon, pitching their vision for the 18th team.
The NRL reportedly want to secure a coach as soon as possible, giving them as much time as possible to begin building a competitive roster before they join the league in 2027.
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Wayne Bennett and the Dolphins were given 15 months to curate their squad ahead of their NRL entry in 2024.
Meninga shapes as an interesting figure to be the Bears’ head coach, being a high-profile figure in rugby league and also the Australian Kangaroos coach.
The 64-year-old has also previously held coaching and advisory roles at the Titans and Raiders.
Arthur, meanwhile, is a more experienced option at NRL level, having coached the Eels for over a decade before he was sacked during the 2024 season.
He has since spent time in Super League, coaching the Leeds Rhinos but is desperate to secure a return to Australia, with two of his children being contracted NRL players.
Meninga’s profile could prove to be the difference in the NRL’s big decision as the Perth franchise attempt to cut through in an AFL dominated market.
However, he reportedly would also consider leading the PNG franchise, who are set to join the NRL out of Port Moresby in 2028.
Meninga may also have to leave his post as Australian coach to join the Bears, having previously committed to leading the Kangaroos until the end of the 2026 World Cup.
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“I’ve always wanted to scratch that itch when it comes to getting back into coaching in clubland – and at the end of the day, I want to win,” Meninga said.
“I haven’t been out of the game. I’ve been with the Titans five years, I’m now with the Raiders, and I’ve been coaching rep teams for 20 years.
“I’ve never really been out of the game. I’m also working in commentary and having to give regular opinions about things.
“I’m right up to speed with today’s game, I’m not a dinosaur, I’m a contemporary, and I still work with the elite players.”
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