North Queensland Toyota Cowboys head coach Paul Green will concentrate solely on club duties in 2016 after receiving interest from Queensland Rugby League to replace Mal Meninga as the Queensland State of Origin coach.

While coaching the Maroons remains a career goal of Green’s, he said the timing wasn’t right to take up the role next year.

“I am extremely flattered by the QRL’s interest in me coaching the Maroons. I’m humbled by the overtures and coaching the Maroons is something I am hugely passionate about,” said Green, who played seven Origin games for Queensland from 1999-2001.

“I’ve decided to concentrate on coaching the Cowboys in season 2016, putting all my energies into having another successful season.

“I want to thank everyone who has supported me through this process however the timing around coaching State of Origin next year just wasn’t quite right, and from a personal point of view, the decision that I’ve made will be the best thing for all parties next year.”

Green added he was grateful to the QRL in considering him for the role, and added that his love of rugby league’s toughest annual contest ran deep.

“As a past State of Origin player, I remain as passionate as ever about the Maroons and remain hopeful of again getting such a treasured opportunity.

“I can’t thank the QRL enough for considering me for this role.”

QRL Managing Director Robert Moore said he understood Paul’s position and wished him well for the upcoming 2016 NRL season.

“We respect and support Paul’s decision to concentrate on the Cowboys as the club prepares for its premiership defence,” Moore said.

“The QRL understands the enormous public interest surrounding the appointment of Mal’s successor and will continue with the process. However, it’s unlikely that we’ll have a decision until the New Year.”

Green, his coaching staff and players will break for Christmas-New Year on Saturday 19 December, returning to pre-season training on Monday 4 January.