'Never in my wildest dreams': Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters' contract extended until 2028 ahead of World Cup

Kevin Walters has officially been extended as Kangaroos coach ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup for a further two years.

ARLC chairman Peter V'landys confirmed on Friday afternoon that Walters' contract had been extended into 2028.

"I was very impressed with the feedback from the Kangaroos players when they were surveyed, giving Kevin enormous praise as a coach and motivator," V'landys said.

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"Kevin did an outstanding job [with the 2025 Ashes series] and I'm very pleased to announce him as the Kangaroos coach for the most important tournament in many years.

"As Kangaroo number 612, Kevin has displayed passion for the jersey as well as for his players. I saw first-hand in the UK the way the players responded to him."

Walters took control of the top job in July last year and led the Kangaroos to an Ashes 3-0 whitewash of England.

"The experience I had with the team at the Ashes was a privilege and very rewarding," Walters said.

"Now to be able to continue into a home World Cup will be a huge honour.

"I'm very grateful for this opportunity. I never thought in my wildest dreams I'd be Kangaroos coach in a World Cup. It's very humbling."

Walters played 11 Test matches for the Kangaroos and was also part of the 1990 and 1994 Kangaroo tours.

"I never thought as a kid, you played rugby league and some great moments there of my career, but the coaching side of it, I never thought I'd get the opportunity to coach Australia or Queensland," Walters said on Fox Footy.

"I've done both now but this World Cup, it's a big part of my coaching career, so I want to make sure we get it right."

The World Cup will be hosted jointly by Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea from October 15 to November 15.