Des Hasler sacked by Bulldogs

The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have sacked embattled coach Des Hasler, having only re-signed him for a further two seasons in April.

After months of speculation, and failing to reach the finals for the first time since 2011, the year before Hasler took over, the club informed the former premiership-winning coach on Tuesday of their decision.

Hasler took the Bulldogs to both the 2012 and 2014 grand finals, however he failed to win a premiership with the club.

Bulldogs chairman Ray Dib said the club is now pursuing a new head coach after six years with Hasler.

"Today, I informed Des Hasler and his management of our decision to pursue a new Head Coach for our Club, effective immediately," Dib said.

"The heads of agreement reached with Des Hasler for an extension of his contract were non-binding and a decision has been made not to renew his contract for next year.

"These types of conversations are never easy, especially when they involve people we respect personally and professionally, however, the Club believes the decision to change our football leadership was absolutely necessary.

"The Club will now begin its search for a new Head Coach and will provide further information once that process has been completed."

The Bulldogs finished the season in 11th position, after another year blighted by poor attack.

Current Bulldogs assistant Jim Dymock, and highly rated Canberra assistant coach Dean Pay are the front-runners for the Canterbury head coach position.

More to come.