Walters to quit Kangaroos post after signing on for new job
Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters will quit following this year’s Rugby League World Cup to take up a head coaching role with Super League powerhouse St Helens.
Walters took over as Australia’s coach last year, leading the team on a triumphant Ashes campaign in his first job after being sacked by the Broncos in 2024.
Australia coach Kevin Walters. Getty Images
The legendary former five-eighth will hope to put a full-stop on his time with the national team by lifting the trophy at the end of a tournament that promises to be the most fiercely contested RLWC ever, beginning in mid-October.
Walters was linked with a return to the State of Origin arena after Billy Slater quit as Maroons coach, but quickly withdrew from the race.
Instead, the 58-year-old has signed a three-year deal with the Saints, with the club confirming the news on Thursday afternoon (AEST).
“St Helens are one of the most iconic and successful brands in rugby league. I am honoured to be given the opportunity,” Walters said.
“I look forward to bringing my experiences as a coach and blending those learnings into the winning culture of St Helens.
“For me, the foundation of success is creating the right environment where the players and staff enjoy coming to training and working hard for each other, as well as the Saints sponsors, fans and the wider community.
“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.”
Saints chairman Eamonn McManus lauded the signing of the Broncos, Maroons and Kangaroos legend on a long-term deal.
“Kevin’s vast experience at both club and representative levels is evident,” he said.
“His motivation to succeed with the task at hand was both clear and compelling to us, shown by the major career sacrifices he is making in Australia to join St Helens.
“This is a major statement of ambition both by St Helens and by Super League.”
McManus also expressed thanks to Peter V’landys and the ARL Commission for allowing Walters to partake in the interview process before the World Cup.
Walters has coached in the UK competition before, leading the Catalans Dragons for two seasons in 2009 and 2010 before returning home to Australia.
Kevin Walters during his time as Broncos coach. NRL Imagery
From there, he spent time as an assistant coach working under Craig Bellamy at the Storm and Wayne Bennett at the Knights, before taking the Queensland top job in 2016, winning two of his four series in charge against NSW.
Walters earned his dream job in 2021 when he took over the Broncos, taking the side to within a few minutes of the 2023 grand final against Penrith, before a poor 2024 campaign saw the club icon sacked and replaced by Michael Maguire.
His return to the Super League will also see Walters relinquish media roles with Fox League, where he has worked as a commentator and analyst.
