WAYNE Bennett says he has been really impressed with the English game as he gears up to coach the national team in a tough series starting tomorrow.

The veteran head coach, who has won seven NRL Premierships with Brisbane Broncos and St George Illawarra Dragons and has also guided Australia, spoke of his excitement of the three-Test series against New Zealand.

Speaking at An Evening with Wayne Bennett held at Odsal last night, on the day it was announced he has signed a two-year contact to coach South Sydney Rabbitohs from 2020 once he leaves Brisbane next year, he spoke of his continued love of the sport, particularly the English game.

He also looked ahead to the three-Test series against New Zealand, with the first fixture at Hull tomorrow, followed by matches on November 4 and 11.

Bennett, 68, said: "The Kiwis are a wonderfully talented side. This team have a huge amount of talent. It will be a wonderful series.

"This series of three weeks of three Test matches is equal to the State of Origin.

"We are down with our troops. I have been really impressed with the English game. It has been a real eye opener for me.

"We are now moving towards the 2021 World Cup. I think if I'm not making an impact I won't stay anywhere. If I am one part of a problem, I will review myself. I'm not going to waste anymore time.

"I have always followed the game in England with interest. When the opportunity came to coach in England, I grabbed it.

"I love coaching. The bottom line is Brisbane decided not to renew my contract after 2019. But we are in good shape at the Broncos for next season. South Sydney have a good roster."

In a wide ranging, and candid on-stage interview, Bennett also revealed he had thought about coaching in the Super League and also talked about his impending departure from Brisbane Broncos, the three best players he has coached and even his favourite Clint Eastwood film.

He also revealed his continued love of coaching players after 45 years, his own shyness and his dislike for clubs having codes of conduct. Instead, he says he has two rules for players under his guidance; don't be late and stay out of jail.

He said any sporting clash between England and Australia is great, even if it's marbles.

Bennett added: "I have met Australian Prime Ministers, but the finest people I have met are rugby league players. The people I have been influenced by the most are rugby league players. We have a good product, a good game."