League: Kidwell to be confirmed for Kiwis job

David Kidwell has been serving as Stephen Kearney's assistant at the Kiwis. Photo / photosport.nz

David Kidwell is likely to be confirmed as Kiwis head coach in the next 24 hours.

The Herald understands that the New Zealand Rugby League has decided that Kidwell, who has served as assistant coach to Stephen Kearney since the 2014 Four Nations, is the best fit for the role.

In the wake of Kearney's departure to the Warriors on Tuesday, Kidwell was immediately seen as the logical choice and has been endorsed by both Kearney and Simon Mannering this week

NZRL CEO Alex Hayton previously said that Kidwell was the "obvious candidate", though they have canvassed some other options.

The 39-year-old Kidwell played 25 tests for the Kiwis between 1999 and 2008, and was a member of the triumphant 2005 Tri Nations squad, as well as the 2008 World Cup squad.

Aside from his national role under Kearney, Kidwell has had assistant roles under Craig Bellamy at the Storm and Jason Taylor at the Tigers. He also coached the NYC team at the Rabbitohs.

The 39-year-old played for six clubs during his career, enjoying the most success at the Storm (2003-2006) and the Rabbitohs (2007-2009).