Matt King has officially been appointed as the next New South Wales State of Origin coach, completing a journey that has seen him spend years learning under some of rugby league’s greatest minds before earning the biggest representative job in the game.
The NSWRL confirmed King will take over from Laurie Daley after the Blues’ successful 2026 State of Origin campaign, with the former NSW representative signing a two-year contract to lead the state’s title defence beginning in 2027.
“I’ve Done a Big Apprenticeship”
King said he feels ready for the challenge after years as an assistant coach under Craig Bellamy, Trent Robinson, Michael Maguire and Laurie Daley.
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“I turn 45 this year. I’ve done a big apprenticeship.”
“The love and joy the game gives me… to think that at some stage I might be the head coach of a footy program that means something to me.”
King admitted missing out on the role in 2024 was disappointing but believes working alongside Daley over the past two Origin campaigns ultimately made him a better coach.
Daley’s Public Endorsement
Outgoing coach Laurie Daley made it clear he believed King was the right man to succeed him, publicly backing his long-time assistant before the appointment was finalised.
“Matty King is a first-grade coach now, he’s ready to go.”
“I’d like to see a guy like Matt King take over the role.”
“He’s been there, he’s been a servant and he’s had great input over the last three years.”
Daley stepped down after guiding NSW to a memorable 2026 series victory over Queensland, deciding it was the right time to leave with the Origin shield back in Blues hands.
Long-Term Succession Plan
NSWRL chief executive David Trodden revealed King’s appointment was the result of a succession plan that had been developing for almost two years.
“This wasn’t something we decided overnight.”
Trodden explained the organisation deliberately invested in King’s development, giving him significant responsibility within the Blues coaching staff before handing him the top job. He also confirmed King will officially commence the role on November 1 after completing his commitments with the Sydney Roosters.
Building His Own Coaching Team
King confirmed he intends to retain Boyd Cordner and Brett White as part of his coaching staff while appointing another assistant ahead of next year’s series.
He also outlined the values that will underpin his Blues teams.
“We want to be tough.”
“We want clarity in what we’re doing.”
“You’ve got to nail the moments that matter.”
The former Melbourne Storm and South Sydney representative has also coached Lebanon on the international stage, adding further experience to an already impressive coaching résumé.
A New Era Begins
Replacing a successful Origin coach is never easy, but few candidates arrived more prepared than King.
After years learning from some of rugby league’s best coaches and playing a key role in NSW’s recent success, he now gets the opportunity to shape the Blues in his own image.
His first task will be defending the State of Origin shield in 2027—a challenge that begins with high expectations and the full backing of the man he replaces.
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