A New Era for the NSW Blues?
Former New South Wales (NSW) player Michael Ennis has expressed his interest in becoming the next coach of the Blues in the State of Origin series. This comes as speculation grows that Laurie Daley, the current head coach, may step down from his role regardless of the outcome of this year’s series.
There is a strong belief that Daley could be leaving after the 2026 series, which would create a significant opportunity for someone new to take over. Ivan Cleary, the current coach of the Penrith Panthers, is being heavily tipped to succeed Daley. However, Cleary will not be able to take on the NSW role in 2027 while still serving as the Panthers’ coach.
If Daley does decide to retire at the end of the 2026 series, the Blues’ management will need to find a new coach who is not currently affiliated with an NRL club. This could open the door for Ennis, who recently lost his assistant coaching role at the Dragons and previously held the same position at Manly.
On SEN radio, Queensland legend Corey Parker praised Ennis as a potential candidate for the NSW Origin role. “Laurie has had five series and he’s won one,” Parker said. “By all reports, this is Laurie’s last. I’m biased, but I think Michael Ennis would do an unbelievable job for the Blues. I think you have to go down the younger path. Ivan Cleary is coming off contract. They need people who are in touch with the week-to-week system.”
Ennis Steps Forward
Michael Ennis confirmed his interest in the coaching role during an appearance on SEN later in the morning. “I grew up idolizing the era of Laurie, so it feels a little rude talking about it on the eve or Origin 1,” Ennis said. “But when Laurie has decided he has had enough, it’s definitely something I would like to do. I love that arena, I love what comes with it—the expectation and the pressure. The level of the players. I would love to do it at the right time.”
Ennis played eight State of Origin games for NSW between 2009 and 2015. He also played 274 NRL games across stints with the Knights, Dragons, Broncos, Bulldogs, and Sharks. Ennis was part of the Cronulla team that won the NRL premiership in 2016.
Daley’s Future Remains Uncertain
Daley remained cryptic about his future on the eve of Origin 1. “I know exactly what I want to do,” he said. “There’s no surprise with what I’m doing. I know what my future looks like, but for me, I am headfirst into Game 1. It’s not a story as far as I’m concerned. Why would I be worried? I’m not a career coach—never have been, never will be.”
As the debate over the next Blues coach continues, Ennis’s name is increasingly being mentioned as a strong contender. With his experience and passion for the game, he could be a compelling choice for the role. Whether or not he gets the chance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the future of the NSW Origin team is in the spotlight.
