Kevin Sinfield lands major England rugby union role

Josh McAllister
Kevin Sinfield. PA Images.

Former Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield has been appointed as England men’s defence coach ahead of the 2023 Six Nations and World Cup in France. 

Sinfield, 42, joined Leicester Tigers’ coaching staff for the 21/22 season, helping the side to the title in his first year.

He joins club boss Steve Borthwick at the England set up, who has been appointed as the men’s new head coach as successor to Eddie Jones.

Sinfield made the switch to rugby union after three years as director of rugby at Leeds Rhinos. He made more than 500 Super League appearances during his playing career, and represented England and Great Britain, before retiring from rugby league in 2015. He went on to feature for Yorkshire Carnegie in 2015/16.

He was awarded an MBE in 2014 for services to rugby league.

Kevin Sinfield: It is a special moment

Sinfield said: “It is a special moment to join England as a coach. I know what representing your country means and to get the chance to do it as a coach is a real honour.

“There is so much player talent in England and I am really looking forward to working with the wider squad of players to see what we can achieve together, especially with such a massive year ahead of us.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Leicester Tigers, the players, staff and supporters, for welcoming me to the club. I’ve loved my time there and wish them all the best for the rest of the season.

“I’m looking forward to getting started and there’s no better opening campaign than the Six Nations.” 

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