Kiwis coach David Kidwell has announced his two assistants for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
Penrith Panthers NSW Cup coach Garth Brennan has been appointed Kidwell's direct assistant, while veteran Brian Smith moves into the role of technical advisor.
"Garth and Brian have the skills and depth of experience to be a very good fit for us. They also share my approach to standards and values – and they are really fizzing to be part of our setup," said Kidwell via statement.
Brennan has experienced plenty of success through the NRL's lower grades, guiding the Panther's U20s side to premiership victory in 2014 and named the coach of the year in 2012.
"[Brennan] has proven over many years that he can relate to the young players to get the best out of them and I am confident that he will be an asset to our coaching group."
Meanwhile Smith, a former NRL first-grade player himself, also boasts a wealth of experience, having coached at the highest level in both Australia and the UK. He's also one of only three people to have coached more than 600 NRL games.
"[Smith's] record speaks for itself. He has played first grade, and coached in the NRL and UK Super League. He also coached NSW Country, so knows what’s required to bring players together from their clubs for short campaigns."
The NZRL also announced the addition of New Zealand great Hugh McGahan to the selection panel of Kidwell, Tawera Nikau and Tony Iro.
The Kiwis' World Cup campaign kicks off on October 28 when they play Samoa at Mt Smart Stadium.
Newshub.
