Super League legend Kevin Sinfield will continue his role as part of England’s rugby union coaching team.
Sinfield has been number two to England head coach Steve Borthwick, since the start of his reign in December 2022 initially as defence coach, and this year changed to skills/kicking coach.
After finishing third in the Six Nations earlier this year, England had two narrow losses to New Zealand in the summer.
Sinfield was due to step down after the recent tour to Japan and New Zealand but has chosen to stay on in his post as skills and kicking coach, as well as providing mentorship to the squad.
“Working with Steve and the team has been an immensely rewarding experience, and I am excited to continue my involvement with the team,” said Sinfield.
“This new arrangement allows me to keep doing the thing that I’m passionate about, coaching and mentoring players, while also balancing other commitments which are important to me.”
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Team-mate and close friend Kevin Sinfield sends a special message to the Leeds fans gathered to pay tribute to Rob Burrow
In a lift for the national set-up following the sudden departures of Aled Walters and Felix Jones, who served as head of strength and conditioning and as defence coach respectively, Sinfield will continue working with England on an ongoing basis.
The 44-year-old has raised over £10m for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research and charities. His fundraising efforts began when his former rugby league teammate and friend Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019 and have included running seven marathons in seven days as well as other endurance feats.
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An emotional Kevin Sinfield described his friend and former teammate Rob Burrow as ‘legend’, following his death at the age of 41
Sinfield’s contact time outside of Test windows and match weeks will be reduced, so he can focus on other activities.
“Kevin is a talented coach and an inspirational figure in our set-up”, said Borthwick.
“The work he does on and off the field is invaluable to our players, so I am pleased he’ll remain part of the management team and continue to contribute towards the success of England Rugby.”