The South Sydney Rabbitohs are poised for a new era of success with the return of Wayne Bennett as head coach in 2025. Known as one of rugby league’s greatest tacticians, Bennett will aim to restore the Rabbitohs to their former glory after two disappointing seasons.
Bennett’s Legacy and Return to South Sydney
Bennett, who previously coached South Sydney from 2019 to 2021, boasts an impressive win ratio of 68% during his tenure. He led the Rabbitohs to the 2021 Grand Final, where they narrowly lost to the Penrith Panthers. Now, with over 1,100 games of coaching experience and a reputation for transforming struggling teams, Bennett has signed a three-year deal, committing to the club until the end of 2027.
His return comes after South Sydney’s tumultuous 2024 season, which saw the club finish 16th on the NRL ladder. This marked a sharp decline from their 9th-place finish in 2023, leading to the midseason dismissal of head coach Jason Demetriou.
Bennett’s most recent success came with the Redcliffe Dolphins, where he exceeded expectations by guiding the fledgling club to a 10th-place finish in 2024. With his proven track record, South Sydney fans are optimistic that he can guide the Rabbitohs back to finals contention and, ultimately, another Grand Final.
Resolving Latrell Mitchell’s Controversy
A key focus for Bennett will be managing star player Latrell Mitchell, who endured a turbulent 2024 season. Mitchell played just 11 games due to injuries and off-field controversies. Bennett’s no-nonsense coaching style and ability to maximize player potential could be the key to unlocking Mitchell’s best form.
Key Players and New Additions
The Rabbitohs will rely on experienced playmakers Cody Walker and Cameron Murray to lead the team in 2025. Walker delivered 21 try assists in as many games last season, while Murray, despite battling injuries, remains the team’s heart and soul.
Jack Wighton, who underperformed in his debut season with the Rabbitohs, will look to bounce back under Bennett’s guidance. The return of Campbell Graham, sidelined in 2024 due to injury, is another significant boost to South Sydney’s attacking options.
The club’s offseason signings, including versatile talents Jayden Sullivan and Josh Schuster, add depth and dynamism to the squad. Meanwhile, the departure of veteran hooker Damien Cook leaves an opportunity for Peter Mamouzelos or new recruit Jamie Humphreys to step up as the No. 9.
The Road Ahead
Bennett faces a challenging yet exciting task of rebuilding South Sydney into a premiership contender. With a mix of established stars, emerging talent, and his wealth of experience, the Rabbitohs are set for a rejuvenation in 2025.
The 2025 season marks a fresh start for the Rabbitohs under Bennett’s leadership, with fans hopeful for a return to finals football and the pursuit of the NRL premiership.
