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The Australian Rugby League is encouraging former Kangaroos coach Wayne Bennett to help get New Zealand into shape for next year's World Cup.
ARL chief executive Geoff Carr has all but pushed Bennett into New Zealand's corner, according to a report in Brisbane's Courier Mail newspaper, saying his influence would spice up the World Cup.
Despite disastrous international returns this year, the New Zealand Rugby League last week reappointed Gary Kemble as Kiwis coach. But the NZRL is also reviewing its coaching structure and Carr said he would have no qualms if Kemble sought Bennett's help next year. "It wouldn't be a problem for us if that's what Wayne wants to do," Carr said. "If it's good for New Zealand, it's good for international rugby league. If he can help make them competitive it'll just add to the spice of the tournament."
Bennett stood down as coach in December 2005 after New Zealand beat the Kangaroos 24-0 in the Tri-Nations final.
