St Helens boost ambition with Australia boss Kevin Walters

St Helens have secured a high‑profile appointment by confirming that Australia head coach Kevin Walters will take over as the Saints’ head coach from next season, a move that signals the club’s ambition after a torrid campaign. The 58‑year‑old guided the Kangaroos to a 3‑0 Ashes victory over England last year.

The club announced that Walters will commence a three‑year contract with St Helens in 2027, after completing his World Cup duties with the Kangaroos in October and November. He will remain Australia head coach until the tournament concludes.

Walters brings extensive experience, having previously coached the Catalans Dragons in the Super League and led Queensland as well as the NRL side Brisbane Broncos. His playing career includes six NRL Premierships and 20 State of Origin appearances.

“St Helens are one of the most iconic and successful brands in rugby league,” Walters said on the club website. “I am honoured to be given the opportunity to lead a club with so much history.” He added, “I look forward to bringing my experiences as a coach and blending those learnings into the winning culture of St Helens.” “At the end of last year 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 with the Saints.”

Saints’ turbulent season and interim leadership

Paul Rowley left his role as St Helens head coach in July after less than a year, prompting the club to appoint Eamon O’Carroll as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. O’Carroll will continue in that capacity until the end of the campaign.

The Saints are currently seventh in the Super League table with three games remaining and face the prospect of missing the play‑offs for the first time ever. A spate of injuries has heavily contributed to their precarious position.

Club leadership backs Walters’ appointment

Chairman Eamonn McManus said, “Kevin’s vast experience at both club and representative levels is self‑evident. His motivation to succeed with the task at hand was both clear and compelling to us, as shown by the major career sacrifices that he is making in Australia to join St Helens.” He described the appointment as a major statement of ambition for both St Helens and the Super League.

McManus added, “He has been magnificent for us under testing circumstances, and I am sure that our fans will remain firmly behind him and the team.”

Walters will fulfil his World Cup commitments with the Kangaroos in October and November before joining the Saints, where he is expected to shape the club’s strategy ahead of the 2027 Super League season.