Cowboys sack coach Paul Green

North Queensland Cowboys coach Paul Green has been sacked, as first reported by The Daily Telegraph's Buzz Rothfield.

It comes after the Cowboys' poor form in recent weeks, having won just three of their last 10 games.

“After seven years as head coach it is with a heavy heart that I make this announcement”, Green said in a statement on the club website.

“The board felt that the club was at a juncture where they needed to move in a different direction, and I can only respect their views.

“Whilst this is obviously disappointing news, I am grateful to the Board for allowing me to lead this club whilst creating some lifelong memories. I will use this next period to freshen up, spend some time with my family and assess options before moving on to my next coaching role”.

They currently sit 12th on the ladder at 3-7.

Green joins the Warriors' Stephen Kearney and Canterbury's Dean Pay as the third NRL coach to depart this season.

The 47-year old took North Queensland to their maiden premiership and has made two grand finals.

However, the club has finished 13th and 14th the last two seasons.

Cowboys assistant Josh Hannay will take over the coaching duties for the rest of the season.

“I’m pleased the club is providing an opportunity for Josh Hannay and David Tangata-Toa to stretch themselves in the coming weeks and thank them, our football staff and our players for their support. We have some terrific young players coming through our system which will set up the club for further success in the future,” Green said.

“I’d also like to thank all of those who aided in delivering the club’s first premiership to the North Queensland community - being a part of that historical season is something I will always treasure.”