Perth Bears appoint Mal Meninga as NRL foundation coach for 2027 season
Mal Meninga has been named as the Perth Bears' foundation coach in the lead-up to their debut NRL season in 2027.
Meninga will step down as Australia coach to take on the role with the Bears, who were announced as the NRL's 18th franchise last month.
The rugby league Immortal has previously coached in the NRL, having led the Canberra Raiders between 1997 and 2001.
He made a name for himself as a representative coach, however, guiding Queensland to nine State of Origin series victories, including eight straight (2006-2013).
Meninga had coached the Kangaroos from 2016 until now, winning two World Cups during his tenure.
As a player, he captained the Kangaroos between 1990 and 1994, and skippered the Raiders to three premierships (1989-1990 and 1994).
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