Queensland rugby league legends Darren Lockyer and Wally Lewis anticipate that Des Hasler will be dismissed as coach of the Gold Coast Titans following his 500th NRL match this Saturday. Hasler’s recent outburst, captured on television where he reprimanded his players after a narrow loss to the Wests Tigers, has intensified scrutiny on his position amid reports of unrest within the team.
Pressure mounts on Hasler as he grapples with managing a squad that News Corp claims he has lost touch with. His contract reportedly includes a clause allowing the Titans to terminate his deal without further payment if the team is mathematically eliminated from finals contention. Currently, the Titans are at the bottom of the ladder, and even a perfect finish to their remaining matches would likely leave them short of the necessary points for a finals spot.
Lockyer and Lewis predict the Titans will end up with the wooden spoon this season. A defeat in Hasler’s milestone match against the Warriors could seal his fate. Lockyer suggested a decision regarding Hasler’s future may have already been made, stating that even winning future games may not be enough to save his job. Lewis echoed this, advocating for the club to consider a new coach in preparation for the next season.
In the wake of Hasler’s outburst, his frustrations were reportedly sparked by the players’ reactions in the dressing room after the match, where he chastised them for poor decisions that cost them the game. Rugby league great Greg Alexander critiqued the players’ choice to shower before addressing their coach, labelling it disrespectful. Lockyer described Hasler’s behaviour as a clear expression of his frustrations, emphasising that the situation reflects broader turmoil within the Titans.
As Hasler approaches this critical juncture in his career, the NRL has recognised the significance of his 500th game, commending his dedication and intensity as a coach. However, reports indicate that his strict coaching style may have alienated players and contributed to his current predicament with the Titans. If Hasler does part ways with the team, his recent explosive reactions could become a lasting memory of his tenure on the Gold Coast.