League: McClennan tipped for Kiwis coach job

Brian McClennan

Brian McClennan remains favourite to take over as Kiwis coach when the New Zealand Rugby League announces its decision today.

The three-man coaching selection committee cut 12 applications to four, who were interviewed this week.

The panel decision was quickly ratified by the full NZRL board.

McClennan and James Leuluai, who were the assistants to Daniel Anderson, are believed to have interviewed well.

But it is not clear whether they will be involved in the 2005 Tri-Nations series

Auckland coach Stan Martin and WaiCoa Bay coach Tawera Nikau were apparently eliminated from the short-list.

In Sydney, Kiwis sensation Sonny Bill Williams has suffered another injury blow following fears that serious knee damage could end his role in the Bulldogs' NRL premiership defence.

There could also be implications for the Kiwis, considering the 19-year-old would be a certain selection in the Tri-Nations series which starts in October.

Initial medical reports speculated that Williams, who tore the meniscus muscle in his right knee five minutes into his comeback from ankle surgery against South Sydney last Saturday, could be back in a month.

But a grimmer diagnosis followed his assessment by a specialist.

He could be out of action for up to 12 weeks, and if so he will miss the regular NRL season and only be available should the Bulldogs, currently 12th, make the top-eight playoffs.

Williams has also suffered bone bruising - his third serious leg injury in two years.

The former Aucklander, who has managed only five games this season due to a succession of injuries, was said to be shattered by the diagnosis.

- additional reporting: NZPA