Craig Fitzgibbon appointed Country coach

Country Rugby League is pleased to announce Craig Fitzgibbon as the coach of the 2016 VB Country Origin team.

The former Premiership winner and Australian Kangaroos, NSW Blues and Country Origin Representative will take over from Trent Barrett; who steps down after four years to take on the role as head coach of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.

Country Rugby League CEO Terry Quinn believes Fitzgibbon is an ideal selection as VB Country Origin Coach.

"We are very excited to have someone like Craig Fitzgibbon joining the Country Origin team as Head Coach next season," said Quinn.

"Fitzy's a proud country boy from Dapto who understands the proud culture of Country Rugby League and this is a great opportunity for him to further his coaching career.

"Craig has represented Country Origin on five occasions and has been in the coaching system with the Roosters and the Kangaroos under people like Trent Robinson and Tim Sheens. He's also been Trent's assistant so this is a natural progression for him."

Although initially surprised at his selection, Fitzgibbon is looking forward to taking up his new role.

"It's probably come as a bit of a surprise but I'm thrilled to get the opportunity," Fitzgibbon said.

"I've been there as a player and was Trent's assistant a few years back and it's always a great week to be involved so I'm looking forward to the whole experience."

Fitzgibbon played 263 first grade games for the Sydney Roosters, St George Illawarra Dragons and Illawarra Steelers and played 19 Tests for Australia and made 11 State of Origin appearances for New South Wales.