- Alexander was a champion player at Penrith Panthers
- Has a distinguished media career and a wide range of responsibilities
- Said that working for NSW shouldn’t be a job you hesitate about
Greg Alexander has stepped down as Brad Fittler’s trusted NSW State of Origin advisor.
Non-contracted coach Fittler will appear before the NSW Rugby League board on Friday to discuss his preferred staff for next year after back-to-back series defeats.
But Alexander confirmed on Friday morning he would not continue in the job after working alongside his former Penrith teammate Fittler since taking on the role in 2018.
“I’ve just decided enough is enough,” Alexander said on SEN.
Alexander has announced that he is stepping down from his position with the New South Wales Blues State of Origin after six years
Head coach Brad Fittler, along with the New South Wales heirachy, will have to make a big decision on who will replace Alexander
“It’s been a big part of my six years. But it’s a big commitment and I’ve committed to something else.
‘When everything calmed down after the trip abroad, I just thought about it.
‘And when Freddy asked me if you are ready to go again, it is not a job you (should) hesitate about.
“Freddy wants to continue and I certainly wish him the best.”
Alexander said he and Fittler had not discussed who could take on the role next year if Fittler retains his job as NSW coach.
‘Brandy’ Alexander imagined himself talking to Matthew and Andrew Johns at blues practice before the brothers had a falling out
Alexander in his playing days for Penrith, where he led the Panthers to an NRL premiership as their captain and key playmaker in 1991
Fittler had presented a summary of the Blues’ 2-1 State of Origin series loss to the NSWRL board last month and had been asked to return on Friday with his expected 2024 staff.
Andrew Johns, Danny Buderus and Paul McGregor were among the other staffers in camp with Fittler this year.
Ivan Cleary also featured in Fittler’s box in a game-day role for Origin III and is an option to take on a similar position next year.
Fittler is unlikely to hear on Friday whether he will retain the top job for next year, after which the board will discuss his preferences.
While Fittler would prefer to receive a one-year extension, it is unlikely to be confirmed before the next board meeting in late October.