League: Aussie coach relieved 'general' not in Kiwis

Stacey Jones was yesterday described as a great loss to the NRL by a legendary Australian coach relieved the New Zealand Warriors' playmaker is not fronting the Kangaroos in tonight's test.

Australia and Brisbane mentor Wayne Bennett admitted he was sad to see Jones announce his departure, but said the former Kiwis halfback was an astute signing for French club UTC.

"He's a wonderful player and I'm pleased he's not in the New Zealand team because he would have made a real difference.

"He's a general, he gets them around the football park - I wouldn't like to coach New Zealand without him," Bennett said of the 34-test veteran who retired from international football last year.

"I have great admiration for him. He's one of the really good players in our competition. He has always conducted himself great and has always had a great approach to the game - the way he played it."

Kangaroos captain Darren Lockyer endorsed his coach's sentiments.

"He's been a great player in the NRL and it's always been a big test to play against him. "

Jones' team-mates on international duty were not put off their stride by the news.

"They are focused on the test, there wasn't really any reaction," Kiwis media officer Peter Leitch said.

"You know, I think most of them knew it was coming up. There was no major shock."

While the news may not sit well with the Ericsson Stadium faithful, Leitch said Jones' contribution to the club could never be under-estimated.

- NZPA