Kevin Walters has been named the next head coach of St Helens, just months before he is set to lead Australia in the World Cup. Recently, he received a two-year extension as the Kangaroos coach after guiding Australia to a 3-0 series victory in the Ashes last year.
The former Queensland coach dismissed rumors about taking the vacant Queensland position following Billy Slater's resignation from the Origin role. However, St Helens announced that Walters would be stepping in as their new coach right before his World Cup duties.
Walters has expressed his desire to return to club coaching, but fans were taken aback by the timing of the announcement. St Helens supporters were thrilled about the arrival of the ex-Broncos and Queensland coach to the Super League.
Reportedly, Walters has signed a lucrative three-year deal valued at around $2 million with St Helens, according to The Courier Mail. This contract would position him among the highest-paid coaches in the club's 151-year history. Consequently, Australia will need to find a new coach after the World Cup concludes.
Walters succeeded former Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga, who took the head position for the new Perth Bears team. He is also a frequent commentator for Fox Sports, but he will likely forgo those duties due to his relocation to England.
Expressing his enthusiasm about his new role, Walters stated, "St Helens are one of the most iconic and successful brands in rugby league." He added, "At the end of last year I was in England for the Ashes Series as the Kangaroos head coach. I witnessed first hand how tough, physical and skilful the English players were. I look forward to being a part of Super League in 2027 with the Saints."