North Queensland will reportedly not renew Graham Murray's contract from 2009, opening the door for outgoing Broncos legend Wayne Bennett to coach the Cowboys.

Bennett shocked the rugby league world when he announced last week that he would walk away from the Broncos at the end of the 2008 season, his 21st at Brisbane.

The Nine Network said Murray had been told that his contract would not be renewed for next year.

A formal announcement is expected on Thursday.

Murray - a former NSW Origin coach - has a remarkable record at the Cowboys since arriving in 2002.

He took them to their first finals campaign in 2004 and guided them to the 2005 season decider, which they lost to Wests Tigers.

The former NSW Origin coach also worked a miracle last season by leading the Cowboys to the final four despite a horror injury list.

Cowboys assistant coach Ian Millward is also expected to be considered as Murray's replacement.

Calls to the Cowboys were not returned.

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