Smith stands
down as Country Origin coach

Parramatta rugby league coach Brian Smith has announced he won't stand for the Country Origin coaching position next year.

Smith has held the position for the past three seasons, but has decided to focus solely on the Eels, who missed this year's National Rugby League finals. Smith coached Country to a record 42-10 drubbing of City in 2001 but lost out to City counterpart Graham Murray in the 2002 and 2003 fixtures.

Former Test forward Dean Pay was Smith's assistant this season and would be among the favourites to take over should he make himself available.