England to appoint new coach for RLWC26 after Wane steps down

England is set to appoint a new coach for IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026 after Shaun Wane stepped down in the wake of Australia's 3-0 Ashes whitewash.

Wane, who succeeded Wayne Bennett in February 2020, made the decision after taking time to reflect on the England program and believes the timing is right for new leadership to guide the team into the upcoming World Cup.

Unlike Wane, the next England coach is set to be appointed on a part-time basis, paving the way for an NRL mentor to take charge.

Broncos premiership winning coach Michael Maguire distanced himself from the role during a pre-Xmas visit to England, but another contender could be Brian McDermott.

McDermott won four Super League titles with Leeds and has joined the coaching staff at the Titans after three seasons in Newcastle.

New Knights coach Justin Holbrook has also been mentioned, along with Rabbitohs great Sam Burgess, who is now in charge of Warrington.

St Helens mentor Paul Rowley, Wigan's Matt Peet and Hull KR's Willie Peters, who was an assistant to Kevin Walters for the Kangaroos, are others touted as possible replacements for Wane.

Gold Coast fullback AJ Brimson, Dolphins pair Herbie Farnworth and Morgan Knowles, Raiders forwards Morgan Smithies and Matty Nicholson, Roosters lock Victor Radley, Knights winger Dom Young and Wests Tigers second-rower Kai Pearce-Paul are among the English players in the NRL.

Leeds pair Harry Newman and James McDonnell will join Perth Bears after the World Cup.

During his tenure, Wane oversaw memorable series victories over Tonga in 2023 and a star-studded Samoa a year later, as well as a semi-final appearance in the last World Cup in England in 2022, losing to Samoa in golden point.

“It has been the honour of my life to coach England Rugby League over the last six years but after careful reflection I believe the time is right to step aside and allow the program to move forward into its next chapter," Wane said.

“The privilege of leading my country in a World Cup, an Ashes Series on home soil and securing victories over Tonga and Samoa will live long in the memory.

"I’m incredibly grateful to all the players, coaches and staff I’ve worked alongside during that time, their commitment and professionalism made those moments possible.

“I wish everyone involved with England Rugby League the best going forward and for the World Cup later this year." 

RFL interim chief executive Abi Ekoku paid tribute to Wane for his service over the last six years, in which England won 14 of their 19 matches.

“The RFL would like to thank Shaun for his leadership and unstinting dedication to making the England Rugby League team the very best it could be over the last six years," Ekoku said in an RFL statement.

“Shaun has not only led England with pride, passion and a considerable level of insight; his diligence has set new standards and driven the expectations of a new generation of international stars.

“We wish Shaun the very best for the future and the RFL will undoubtedly call upon his vast knowledge and experience moving forward.” 

The former Wigan Warriors coach is part of a very small elite number of coaches to have won the full suite of domestic club honours and achieved World Club Championship success.

He is one of a select few to have achieved this as both a player and as a head coach, reflecting a rare depth of experience and longevity within professional rugby league.