Meninga: Why Smith would be a perfect fit for Kangaroos job

Charles Goodsir • July 3rd, 2025 2:15 pm

Rugby league immortal Mal Meninga has endorsed games record holder Cameron Smith to be his successor as Australia Kangaroos coach for the upcoming Ashes Tour.

Following his decision to become the inaugural Perth Bears coach, Meninga was forced to stand down as national coach in order to prepare for the significant undertaking of building the NRL’s latest franchise.

After former NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler turned down the role, Smith became the most fancied candidate to assume the Kangaroos position. As a result, Meninga has given his vote of confidence for the second most-capped Kangaroo of all time.

“Cameron is a highly intelligent individual,” Meninga said on SENQ Breakfast.

“His footy IQ is really good and it’s also about having the right people around you as well.

“He understands the game really well, he commentates on the game and he’s coaching his young fella’s side.

“It has kept him thinking about the game and even though they’re kids, you have to think about how you’re going to get the best out of them.

“I think Cam will handle it really well. It’s a huge honour to be a part of the program.

“There’s a great couple of years coming up including the Ashes and a home Rugby World Cup.”

Whether Smith is eventually chosen in the role, Meninga has urged the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) to make a decision quickly as the first Ashes Test against England is three months away.

“It will be the biggest Ashes series ever when you talk about attendance,” Meninga added.

“The game hasn’t come to any conclusion on it. It’s a bit disappointing.

“They need to appoint someone and get over there. They need to get everything organised or else they’ll be behind the eight ball.”

The first of three Ashes Tests begins at Wembley Stadium on October 25.

Games two and three will be held at Everton Stadium and Headingley Stadium on November 1 and November 8 respectively.