Lock In Bennett, Nikau Urges Nz

Sun Herald

Sunday November 30, 2008

By ADRIAN PROSZENKO

NEW ZEALAND legend Tawera Nikau has urged Kiwi officials to sign Wayne Bennett "for life" after the veteran coach helped to plot Australia's stunning World Cup downfall.

Bennett, who begins work at St George Illawarra tomorrow after 21 seasons at Brisbane, is yet to indicate whether he intends to remain part of the New Zealand brains trust beside head coach Stephen Kearney.

Nikau, who witnessed first-hand Bennett's influence on the Kiwis in a pre-World Cup camp, urged officials to make him a permanent member of the coaching staff.

"The New Zealand Rugby League should sign him for life," the former Melbourne forward said. "He was absolutely fantastic and Steve grew as a coach, too.

"[Bennett] was huge. He had a huge amount of what we call 'mana', which in New Zealand means respect.

"He got that not just from the players but the coaching staff, too. Someone with his knowledge and experience really cemented that self-belief in the Kiwis."

Nikau said that Kearney, who is the assistant coach at Melbourne, would continue to develop his skills under Bennett's tutelage.

"Hopefully we can win the next World Cup as well," he said.

Why Stuart should go - Pages 86, 87

© 2008 Sun Herald

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