Cummins returns to rugby league with Widnes

Widnes have appointed former Bradford boss Francis Cummins as their new assistant coach.

Cummins, 40, will link up with the Vikings in 2018, having most recently worked in rugby union with Doncaster Knights as outside backs and skills coach.

During his playing days, Cummins won Grand Final, Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge honours with Leeds, and represented Great Britain.

He said: “I’m delighted to be joining Widnes Vikings and to be back in Rugby League. Widnes Vikings are a great club and I am excited to have the opportunity to work with their players next season.

“As a coach, I like to see the potential in players and to encourage them to express themselves on the field. I’m looking forward to using the experience from my playing career and my twelve years in coaching to support the progress of the Vikings, alongside Denis and the coaching team.”

Cummins became Bradford assistant in 2010, before becoming head coach in September 2012. He was sacked in July 2014.

Widnes head coach Denis Betts said: “Francis has great experience as a player and a coach, and will enhance us as a group. He has worked hard within coaching for many years, proving his abilities in tough environments.

“It was important for me to find a coach who has played at the highest levels as an outside back, and can relate well to our players in these positions. This appointment makes our coaching team stronger and I am looking forward to working alongside Francis next season.”