Former Queensland State of Origin coach and rugby league star, Paul Green, has died aged 49.
Green played more than 100 NRL games, debuting with the Cronulla Sharks in 1994 before moving to the North Queensland Cowboys in 1999.
The quick-thinking half-back went on to play stints at the Roosters, Eels and Broncos, and represented the Maroons 10 times.
In recent years he made a name for himself as a coach, most famously guiding the Cowboys to their first premiership in 2015.
He coached the Cowboys for 167 games over a six-year period and the Queensland side in the 2021 State of Origin series.
Paul Green (far right) coached the Queensland side at last year’s State of Origin.(ABC News: Tom Maddocks)
Green’s former teammate at Cronulla, Martin Lang, paid tribute to his friend on Twitter.
“This is so sad. Paul was a close mate, we moved to Sydney together in 1993 … the beginning of an outstanding NRL playing/coaching career.
“My sincere condolences to Paul’s wife, children and his dear mum and dad.
“Rest In Peace mate.”
Wests Tigers half-back Jackson Hastings said on Twitter: “Can’t believe the Paul Green news this morning. Achieved it all as a player and coach still had so much to give, taken way to soon. Thoughts and prayers with family and friends. Makes you realise to take nothing for granted. RIP.”
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Source:: ABC News
