Former Australian Test captain Gorden Tallis has defended Gold Coast Titans coach Josh Hannay after he was criticised for not improving the side in his first season in charge.

The Perth Bears has continued to build out their roster, with the club announcing the signing of versatile Sharks playmaker Niwhai Puru on a two-year deal.

He may not have the same profile as some of NSW’s most recent coaches, from Laurie Daley, Michael Maguire and Brad Fittler to Craig Bellamy and Ricky Stuart.

NSW Rugby League has confirmed Matt King will take over from the outgoing Laurie Daley as head coach of the Blues from next year.

Matt King is set to be given a two-year deal as NSW Origin coach. Christian Nicolussi

Adam Doueihi and the Tigers may have publicly kissed and made up last week following another dramatic saga but a belief remains that there’s still plenty of tension at the club.

North Queensland co-captain Tom Dearden has cleared the air about his future and given the club a boost as he targets returning from injury to inspire a finals run.

Former Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles halfback and ABC Sport rugby league commentator John Gibbs has been diagnosed with cancer.

Luke Bateman has described being flown to race days by betting companies, where he was plied with alcohol and supplied with his choice of drugs. Natassia Chrysanthos

Cowboys superstar Tom Dearden has pledged his long-term commitment to the club while labelling the speculation over his future as “a whole lot of nonsense”.