Brad Fittler has been appointed New South Wales coach, with the former captain taking the reins after a three-month search for Laurie Daley's successor.
Fittler, a former Sydney Roosters coach and NSW assistant, beat ex-South Sydney coach Michael Maguire to the position and will coach the side he represented 31times, 14 as captain.
The former Blues and Kangaroos five eighth has agreed to a two-year contract.
Fittler takes over from Laurie Daley who was dumped as New South Wales coach after he won one State of Origin title in five years at the helm.
Fittler has just led Lebanon to the quarter finals at the Rugby League World Cup, where they suffered a narrow loss to Tonga.
The New South Wales Rugby League Board says they'll hear recommendations of support staff and will announce them in the near future.
"Brad's qualifications for the role are impeccable and his standing within the game is pre-eminent," said NSW Rugby League board chairman George Peponis.
"His recent efforts in the Rugby League World Cup with Lebanon serve as a reminder of his talents as a coach and they provide a window into the exciting future which he will bring the NSW State of Origin team."
