Australian coach Willie Peters has quickly emerged as a prime contender to take over the England national rugby league team, following Shaun Wane's surprise resignation. Wane stepped down just nine months before the Rugby League World Cup, which will be hosted primarily in Australia this October and November.
A Sudden Vacancy Ahead of the World Cup
The Rugby Football League confirmed that Wane's successor will be appointed on a part-time basis, opening the door for a current Super League coach to lead the Lions into the global tournament. Wane's position had been under scrutiny after England suffered a 3-0 Test series whitewash against the Kangaroos in the Ashes last year.
In a statement, the 61-year-old departing coach said, "It has been the honour of my life to coach England Rugby League over the last six years, but after careful reflection I believe the time is right to step aside." He highlighted the privilege of leading his country in a World Cup and an Ashes series at home.
Willie Peters: The Standout Candidate
Willie Peters, the 46-year-old Australian at the helm of Hull KR, is one of the first and most notable names linked to the prestigious role. Peters engineered a remarkable domestic treble with Hull KR in 2025, securing the Super League title, the League Leaders Shield, and the Challenge Cup.
His credentials extend beyond club success. Peters was also a key assistant to Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters during Australia's Ashes victory, meaning he could also be in the mix for a role with the host nation's World Cup defence. Deeply respected in English rugby league circles, the former South Sydney and Wigan halfback has become a fixture at Hull KR, even receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Hull.
Challenges Await the New Coach
Whoever takes the role faces a significant challenge. The build-up to the World Cup is problematic, with no mid-season international scheduled amidst a packed domestic calendar. England's first World Cup match is a daunting clash against Tonga in Perth on October 17.
The new coach will also need to overcome recent disappointments. Wane's tenure, which included 14 wins from 19 matches, was marred by England's failure to reach the 2022 home World Cup final after a semi-final loss to Samoa, followed by the heavy Ashes defeat where the team scored only two tries across three Tests.
Other potential candidates include former South Sydney star Sam Burgess, who has impressed in his first head coaching role with Warrington Wolves. With the World Cup fast approaching, the RFL must move quickly to appoint a leader capable of reviving England's fortunes on the biggest stage.
