Sydney Roosters assistant Craig Fitzgibbon will succeed Trent Barrett as Country Origin coach in 2016.

Barrett will stand down from his post after taking over the reins as head coach at Manly from Geoff Toovey.

“It’s probably come as a bit of a surprise but I’m thrilled to get the opportunity,” Fitzgibbon said.

“I’ve been there as a player and was Trent’s assistant a few years back and it’s always a great week to be involved so I’m looking forward to the whole experience.”

The annual City/Country representative fixture will continue for the next two seasons.

Its future beyond that is uncertain under the new free-to-air TV deal signed with Channel Nine.