Blues announce King as new Origin coach after Daley steps down

Matt King has been appointed as the new head coach of the NSW Blues men's State of Origin team following the resignation of Laurie Daley on Monday. King's appointment was made on Tuesday, with the 45-year-old previously serving as an assistant coach for the Blues since 2024. The former Blues player, who made nine appearances for the team between 2005 and 2007, has also had a distinguished career as a player and coach across the NRL and Super League in England.

Daley stepped down as coach on Monday, having guided the Blues to a series victory over Queensland, winning the final match, known as Game III, at Lang Park with a score of 30-12. This marked the fourth time in history that NSW had won a deciding game in Brisbane. In his statement, Daley expressed his pride in the team's performance and gratitude to the fans for their support, stating that he could not think of a better way to conclude his tenure with the Shield back in NSW.

King, who played as a player for the Blues and for other NRL and Super League teams, has been a respected figure in the rugby league community. As an assistant coach under Trent Robinson at the Sydney Roosters, King has been an integral part of the Blues' coaching staff since 2024.