Super League’s most successful coach takes charge of England before Rugby League World Cup

23 Apr 2026 • 4:53 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Super League’s most successful coach takes charge of England before Rugby League World Cup

  • Brian McDermott has been announced as England's new head coach, and has been tasked with leading their bid to win a first-ever Rugby League World Cup later this year.
  • McDermott, the most successful coach in Super League history with eight major trophies at Leeds Rhinos, takes over from Shaun Wane, who stepped down in January.
  • He was selected by a four-person panel that included former England players Kevin Sinfield and Kris Radlinski.
  • Currently an assistant coach for NRL side Gold Coast Titans, McDermott will now prepare for the 2026 World Cup in Australia.
  • England will commence their World Cup campaign on 17 October against Tonga, before taking on France and Papua New Guinea in the pool stage.

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