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Boyd Cordner frontrunner for NSW Blues coach job

As Laurie Daley nears resignation as NSW Blues coach, former Origin captain Boyd Cordner emerges as a leading replacement candidate. Daley has denied health issues but is expected to step down soon.

Boyd Cordner frontrunner for NSW Blues coach job

Boyd Cordner frontrunner for NSW Blues coach job

The short answer

Boyd Cordner, a former NSW Origin captain and current assistant coach, is reportedly a frontrunner to become the next head coach of the NSW Blues. This follows speculation that current coach Laurie Daley will resign after a State of Origin series win. Daley has not confirmed his departure but said he will make an announcement soon. Reports indicate health concerns may be a factor, though Daley insists he is fine. Cordner's playing career and coaching experience make him a strong candidate.

Why it's trending

Boyd Cordner's name is trending as fans search for updates on the NSW coaching succession following reports that Laurie Daley is poised to resign and that Cordner is a leading candidate.

NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley is expected to resign soon after leading the team to a State of Origin series win earlier this month. According to reports from Nine.com.au, Daley has not officially informed NSWRL officials but is widely expected to quit, with an announcement possibly on his own radio show. CODE Sports has reported that former Blues captain Boyd Cordner is among the frontrunners to replace Daley, alongside fellow assistant Matt King.

Nine.com.au reports that Daley addressed health concerns on Wednesday, stating "my health is good. I'm OK," following a News Corp report that health issues would factor into his decision. However, league legend Paul Vautin claimed on a podcast that Daley told him he is stepping down. Nine’s Danny Weidler confirmed that an announcement is expected but noted that NSWRL boss Dave Trodden had not yet been informed.

Daley coached the Blues from 2013-2017 before returning for a second stint, finishing with two series wins from seven attempts. His potential departure comes after a stunning series upset victory in 2025. Cordner, a veteran of 21 Origin games and a former captain, has been working as an assistant coach and is seen as a natural successor given his leadership experience and familiarity with the squad.

The next coach will face the challenge of building on Daley's success while managing player turnover. Cordner's appointment would continue a trend of former Origin players moving into coaching. Other candidates may be considered, but Cordner's profile as a respected figure in NSW rugby league makes him the early favorite.

Timeline

  1. Blues win Origin series

    Laurie Daley leads NSW to a stunning series victory.

  2. Resignation rumors emerge

    Paul Vautin claims Daley told him he is quitting. News Corp reports health concerns.

  3. Daley addresses health

    Daley says his health is good and will announce decision in due course.

  4. Cordner named frontrunner

    CODE Sports reports Boyd Cordner as a leading candidate to replace Daley.

Questions people ask

Is Boyd Cordner definitely the next NSW coach?

No, no official announcement has been made. Cordner is a leading candidate but other potential replacements include Matt King and possibly others.

Why is Laurie Daley leaving?

Daley has not confirmed his resignation. Reports cite health concerns, but Daley denies them. Some speculate he wants to spend more time on his radio show or step away on a high note.

What is Boyd Cordner's coaching background?

Cordner has served as an assistant coach for NSW Blues since retiring from playing in 2022. He previously captained the Blues and played for the Sydney Roosters.

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