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AAP
Scott Bailey

Alexander steps down as NSW Origin overhaul looms

Greg Alexander (C) has decided to stand down as an adviser for the NSW State of Origin team. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)

A shake-up of NSW's State of Origin coaching ranks has begun with Greg Alexander and Paul McGregor stepping away and Brad Fittler pitching a staffing overhaul for 2024.

Alexander confirmed on Friday he would not stay on as Fittler's chief adviser, having held the role of right-hand man since the Blues coach took over in 2018.

McGregor has also told AAP he will not return to the Origin set-up in 2024 due to other commitments, after acting as an assistant to Fittler this season. 

Their exits are likely to be the first of a number of changes for NSW, with several positions up for grabs and coach Fittler off contract following a second straight series loss.

Fittler met with the NSW Rugby League board on Friday to run through his preferred set-up and coaching staff for next year, after presenting a review of the 2-1 series loss last month.

AAP has been told Fittler is ready to make several changes to this season's staff, having already sounded out some of the potential options for 2024.

The board will meet again next Wednesday to discuss Fittler's preferences.

The coach's position is also up for renewal, but the former Blues five-eighth is favoured to hold on to the top job for at least another year.

A decision on that could come as soon as after next week's meeting, well before the next scheduled board meeting in late October.

Changes are likely around the entire Blues structure, including a discussion around the length of camps before matches after an external push for shorter stays.

The preference would be for players to attend recovery sessions with their clubs after they are named for NSW, before entering camp on a Monday afternoon.

That would still allow for a 10-day camp, while cutting out one night at the start.

Alexander had earlier said he had not discussed with Fittler who may take his job to work alongside the head coach in 2024.

"I've just decided that that's enough," Alexander told SEN.

"It's been a massive part of my last six years. But it's a big commitment and I've committed elsewhere.

"And when Freddy asked me are you good to go again, it's not a job that you (should) hesitate on.

"Freddy wants to continue and I certainly wish him well."

Andrew Johns and Danny Buderus were among the other high-profile staff in camp with Fittler this year.

Penrith coach Ivan Cleary featured in Fittler's box in a game-day role for Origin III and is an option to take on a similar position next season.

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