Rohan Smith leaves as new Bradford owners search for head coach

The Australian only arrived at Bradford Bulls in May on a three-year deal after taking over when James Lowes quit but he will not be in charge during 2017.

Smith, 35, had stayed on after the club went into administration in November, overseeing pre-season training.

It was then liquidated earlier this month and has now been taken over by Kiwi duo Andrew Chalmers and Graham Lowe.

They met with Smith this afternoon to discuss the future of the new Bradford club who will start the Championship season at Hull KR on February 5 on minus 12 points with many of their best players having left during the ongoing financial mess.

Chalmers said: “There were various points that both parties disagreed on and it was decided that both the club and the former coach of Bradford Bulls would not move forward together.”

Lowe added: “I fully understand the difficulties faced by the club and I know it has been a tough few months for Rohan.

“We appreciate all he did for the Bradford Bulls and the support he has given the playing group.”

There was speculation earlier this afternoon that Leon Pryce, the 35-year-old ex-Great Britain stand-off back for his second spell at Odsal, would take over.

However, Lowe appeared to suggest otherwise saying: “We are focused on bringing in a new proven and experienced coach as soon as possible and that recruitment process is underway.

“We expect to provide an update on this shortly.”