Sean Wayne has stepped down as England manager after six years in charge of the national team.
In a statement released by England Rugby League on Wednesday, Wayne said he had “taken time to reflect on the program” and believed “the time is now for new leadership” ahead of the World Cup, which is just nine months away.
Wayne won 14 of his 19 matches for England, reaching the World Cup semi-finals and winning series against Tonga and Samoa, but came under pressure after a disappointing 3-0 home Ashes defeat to Australia.
“The RFL would like to thank Sean for his leadership and unstinting dedication to making the England Rugby League team the best it can be over the past six years,” the statement said.
“Not only has Sean led England with pride, passion and considerable levels of acumen, but his work ethic has set new standards and led the way for a new generation of international stars.
“We wish Sean all the best in his future endeavors and the RFL will no doubt benefit from his vast knowledge and experience.”
Wayne won 14 of his 19 games as England manager.
“It’s the perfect time to step back.”
In his farewell address to England Rugby League, Wayne said: “It has been the privilege of my life to coach England Rugby League for the past six years, but after much consideration I believe the time is right to step back and take the program to its next chapter.”
“The privilege of leading my country at the World Cup and defeating Tonga and Samoa in the Ashes series on home soil will be remembered for a long time. I am incredibly grateful to all the players, coaches and staff I worked with during that time. Their dedication and professionalism made that moment possible.”
“I wish everyone involved in England Rugby League the best of luck for the future and the success of the World Cup later this year.”
Turn Wayne’s coffin nails to ashes
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England head coach Sean Wayne has called on the nation to support his team ahead of this weekend’s Rugby League Ashes. They will aim for their first win in 22 years in the series against Australia.
After England lost 3-0 to the Ashes last October, Wayne implored his manager and supporters to help lead his country to the World Cup.
“I don’t believe it, but I know I’m the right person[to lead England to the Rugby League World Cup].
“All I want is the players and the staff and I know I have that.
“I will be reporting and giving my thoughts on the series and speaking to people at the RFL.
“They want to make the competition better and they don’t like us to lose and we’re all heading in the same direction. So we have to be better for next year’s World Cup and we have to be.”
However, the coach’s defiance after the series appears to have fallen on deaf ears, and his sacking was perhaps even more predictable after RFL interim chairman Nigel Wood admitted in an interview after last year’s Ashes that his position was subject to review.
Asked about Wayne’s position, Wood said: “As always, we will consider all of that.” “This is not like a public test on coaches. We will review the test in plenty of time when we receive the report, as we do at the end of every international series.”
The position is expected to revert to a part-time role following Wayne’s removal as full-time head coach, with the RFL expected to announce new appointment criteria later this year.
