Australian Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters will depart his international coaching role following the end of this year's World Cup.
Walters will link up with St. Helens in 2027 as head coach, with the Super League club confirming he has accepted a three-year offer to make the switch to England.
The Kangaroos' World Cup defence campaign kicks off in under two months, making it a surprising exit given Walters signed on for a two-year extension in June.
Walters' impressive coaching record got him over the line to return to a full-time role, including two State of Origin series wins with Queensland, climbing to a 2023 Grand Final appearance with the Broncos, while also securing a white wash in last year's Ashes series against England.
He spoke of his excitement about joining St. Helens and praised the strong history of the English club.
“St.Helens are one of the most iconic and successful brands in rugby league. I am honoured to be given the opportunity by the Chairman, Eamonn McManus, and the St.Helens Board to lead a Club with so much history," Walters said in a St. Helens statement.
“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 firsthand how tough, physical, and skilful the English players were. I look forward to being a part of Super League in 2027 with the Saints.”
Walters was sacked by Brisbane in 2024 and was subsequently snatched up for the Australia job in July the following year.
ARL Commission boss Peter V'landys thanked Walters for his coaching service for the country and wished him the best in his endeavours in England.
“We have no problem at all, we are excited for Kevin,” V'landys said to the Courier Mail.
“He will do the Australian team for the World Cup and we will go from there.
“We see no conflict and there was a precedent last year because our assistant coach Willie Peters came out of Super League.
“I'm really happy for Kevin. He has done a great job with the Kangaroos so far and we wish him all the best when he goes to St Helens.
“It's a wonderful opportunity.”
Courier Mail reports reveal it is a $2 million contract, and it is the most lucrative deal given to an Australian coach in the British competition.
St. Helens have uncharacteristically struggled in 2026, recording 13 wins and 10 losses in a mixed campaign this year.
Walters will provide stability and demand results to return the club to great heights, who have been a historically successful Super League franchise.
The freshly inked contract turns Walters' Australian World Cup campaign into a swansong, giving Australia extra incentive to send him off on a victorious note.
