Wayne Bennett stays on as England coach

Wayne Bennett has signed a two-year deal with the RFL that will see him stay as head coach of England and lead Great Britain in 2019.

Bennett was first appointed in 2016 and led the team in the 2016 Four Nations and to the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final.

The Brisbane Broncos boss said: “It was disappointing not to be lifting the World Cup last December, but I mentioned about this squad being on a journey. I want to continue that journey because I firmly believe we can achieve something special together.

“It’s a pleasure to coach this squad because everyone wants to do their best for one another and do their job properly. The last couple of years have been encouraging and I have seen this group grow in confidence and belief.

“There’s plenty of work to be done and club fixtures to be played between now and the New Zealand games – everyone is aware of what is required of them to join the England programme.”

Also, five other England coaches have also been handed two-year extensions. Paul Anderson (England Knights), Craig Richards (England Women), Martk Roughsedge (England Wheelchair), Dave Elliott (England Academy) and Danny Wilson (England Youth).