Gary Kemble has quit as New Zealand rugby league coach just days after he was the target of criticism from two of his senior players.

New Zealand captain Roy Asotasi and veteran forward David Kidwell revealed last week that the players had no confidence in Kemble, whose first match in charge resulted in a 58-0 thrashing by Australia and who went on to oversee a 3-0 whitewash by Great Britain.

New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) announced yesterday that they would stand by their beleaguered coach but just 24 hours later Kemble decided to walk after 155 days in the job.

Kemble announced his resignation by written statement today having failed to reach an accord with senior players following an emergency meeting in Sydney.

"As a former Kiwi player, I'd have to say it was very disappointing to see the way they (the players) handled the issue," Kemble said. "They could have gone through other channels.

"After my trip to Sydney, I believe I still had support from a number of players and I was keen to continue as Kiwis coach through to the World Cup later this year.

"But what matters to me most is the Kiwi jersey and the game itself.

"I want to see the Kiwis having the best possible chance of winning the World Cup and, to help make that possible, I've decided it's in New Zealand rugby league's best interests that I should step aside."

Kemble, who succeeded Bluey McClennan as coach last year, presided over just one victory in five games, a narrow 22-14 win over France.

Despite the coach's failure to deliver positive results, NZRL chairman Ray Haffenden said he regretted Kemble's decision.

"This hasn't been a good week for the game in this country," he admitted.

"As a board we weren't at all impressed with the conduct of the players in this matter. It wasn't appropriate or acceptable.

"We're disappointed Gary has resigned but we admire him for the courage he has shown in making this tough decision and also for the dignified way he has handled himself.

"Like Gary, we want what is best for the game and, if this helps us later in the year, we'll owe a great deal to Gary."

Haffenden added that the NZRL would begin the process to find a new coach as soon possible, with former Australia boss Wayne Bennett - marked out as a possible replacement for Kemble by the disgruntled Asotasi - the favourite for the post.

More news from SportingLife.com