England boss Shaun Wane has been given a second chance at bringing World Cup glory.
He was under pressure after the national side’s shock World Cup semi-final exit at the hands of Samoa in November. Failing to even reach the final of the home tournament after Wane had targeted winning it, was a major letdown for all concerned. With the ex-Wigan coach out of contract, the RFL undertook a review of his performance and there were many calls for a new coach to be installed.
But the governing body has now officially backed the 58-year-old to take England on to the 2025 World Cup in France. The RFL has also confirmed Stuart Barrow takes over the Women’s side through to the tournament and, understandably, Tom Coyd stays on as Wheelchair coach after their brilliant World Cup win in the autumn. Barrow will be assisted by the Leeds Rhinos head coach and former England captain Lois Forsell, and Dec Hardman, who was the head coach of St Helens when they secured a Women’s Challenge Cup and Super League double in 2021.
