Ex-Warrington Wolves, Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos boss Tony Smith’s next destination

When former Hull KR boss Tony Smith announced he would be stepping down at the end of the 2022 Super League season, there were gasps of shock.

The former Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves head coach broke the news in a pre-match press conference where the media were sitting, waiting for Smith to deliver his team news for the upcoming game.

Instead, the Australian delivered one of the bombshells of the season just weeks before he would lead his Robins side to a Challenge Cup semi-final.

Of course, that semi-final was lost convincingly to the Huddersfield Giants and Smith himself was sacked before the end of the season following a dismal result in Toulouse.

There has been much speculation about where Smith will now hang his hat with the Aussie initially linked to the vacant Leeds post following the departure of Richard Agar.

However, in an incredibly ironic fashion, Tony’s nephew, Rohan, was appointed on a long-term deal at Headingley.

That move has certainly worked with Rohan inspiring the Rhinos to a play-off position as they look one of the most in form teams in the competition – something which seems a far cry away from the horrendous run of defeats at the beginning of the 2022 season.

Now, though, where will Tony Smith end up?

It wouldn’t at all be a surprise if Tony did return to Headingley alongside his nephew Rohan, but to work in a director of rugby type role.

Having said that, however, Tony clearly still has the appetite for coaching as he so often said towards the back end of his time at Rovers.

And, even if there isn’t a position in league for him, the 55-year-old has already spoke of his willingness to move codes.

However, it would be a major loss to the sport and one which is unlikely to happen given his success and experience in the sport.