Former South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire appears to have his name pencilled in to become the new head coach of the Kiwis.
Reports from across the Tasman have suggested the 44-year-old has fastened as the favourite to be awarded the job vacated by David Kidwell after a disastrous World Cup campaign, with confirmation of his appointment by NZ Rugby League imminent.
"It hasn’t been announced yet, but my understanding is that Michael Maguire will be named as the New Zealand coach," Jimmy Smith, pundit and former NRL player, told Fox Sport's Bill and Boz show on Monday night.
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Former NSW State of Origin coach Laurie Daley was another frontrunner for the position.
It's alleged ex-Kiwis captain Richie Barnett also had his name in the hat, the only New Zealander reported as a candidate.
"I know Graham Lowe was very strong coming out in support of Barnett…he's missed out on the job, Michael Maguire will get it," Smith added.
Maguire spent five years at the Redfern-based Rabbitohs, highlighted by an NRL Premiership win in 2014 to break a 43-year title drought.
Former Kiwis hooker Issac Luke was one of his best players that year, while he also coached NZ centre Bryson Goodwin.
Results rapidly tapered off the three years following, until a 12th place finish in 2017 drove the final nail into his coffin.
"For a guy who's desperate to get back into coaching after his sacking last year, he's very excited about it."
Maguire also spent a year in England with Wigan in 2010, where he worked closely with Kiwis veteran Thomas Leuluai.
The Canberra native has been vocal with his enthusiasm the job, telling NRL 360 a fortnight ago that it was an opportunity which had long piqued his interest.
"The international game has always appealed to myself to build, especially [a team] of New Zealand's calibre, would be a great experience," Maguire said.
Former Bulldogs coach Des Hasler had also originally applied for the job, but withdrew his name for contention after learning the NZRL wouldn't allow him to simultaneously hold an NRL head coaching position. That very reasoning also saw former Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey opt out of the running.
The NZRL is expected to make an announcement later this week.
New Zealand's upcoming test schedule for 2018 includes a match against England in Denver in June, a home test against Australia in October, followed by a three-game series in England and a one-off contest with France.
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