Brisbane Broncos coach Bennett has been widely touted as the frontrunner to replace Gary Kemble, who resigned last month.

Bennett met with NZRL chairman Ray Haffenden and general manager Peter Cordtz in Brisbane last Thursday.

But a report out of Brisbane has suggested the six-time premiership-winning coach, was not interested in the head coaching role but was willing to work as an assistant or coaching co-ordinator - sending the rumour mill into overdrive.

Bennett has maintained a stony silence on the issue, saying an announcement, expected this week, was now in the hands of the NZRL.

If Bennett has ruled out becoming the Kiwis' World Cup coaching saviour, then Melbourne Storm assistant and former test great Stephen Kearney looms as an obvious candidate.

The NZRL has abolished its residency rule which stated the Kiwis coach must live in New Zealand, which opened the door to approach Bennett for a role.

Kearney has also refused to speculate on linking with the Kiwis, while former coach Brian McLennan has stated he would never work with the NZRL again.

In contrast to his predecessor Andrew Chalmers, Haffenden is a cautious character with one of his first moves as chairman being to order board members not to speak to media.

The Australian Rugby League has given Bennett its blessing to assist the Kiwis, aware he would add some much needed spice to the World Cup, hosted by Australia in October-November.

The Dominion Post