The New Zealand Rugby League has shortlisted four applicants for the Kiwis head coaching position.
The NZRL received 14 enquiries from as far away as England for the role that became vacant when Stephen Kearney's contract ended after the Rugby League World Cup in December.
Kearney has re-applied for his job, and faces competition from former national team-mates Richie Blackmore and David Kidwell and Australian Glenn Morrison, who currently coaches in the English second division.
The four candidates will be interviewed by the appointment panel over the next week, with a recommendation due with the NZRL board by mid February.
The Kiwis' first fixture this year will be the annual Anzac test on May 2nd.
