Leeds Rhinos legend officially takes on new role

Legendary Leeds Rhinos player Kevin Sinfield has taken on a new role as Defence Coach at England Rugby Union alongside new Head Coach Steve Borthwick as they both make the move from Leicester Tigers.

The RFU made the following statement:

“Former England captain and forwards coach Steve Borthwick has been announced as England men’s head coach from today.

“Kevin Sinfield has also been appointed to the position of England men’s defence coach, taking on the role this week.

“Borthwick started his playing career at Preston Grasshoppers, he represented England Schools, Colts U21 and Saxons. He played lock in 57 Tests for England from 2001-2010 and captained the side 21 times. He played Premiership rugby for ten years at Bath and six years at Saracens; captained both teams and became a Premiership winner in 2011 making 265 Premiership appearances, a record at the time.

“Sinfield started playing Rugby League at Waterhead ARLFC.  He was a player, captain and director of rugby for Leeds Rhinos where he led the team to seven Super League championships and two Challenge Cup successes. He was a loose forward as well as a stand-off.

“He played 26 rugby league tests for England which he captained and 14 tests for Great Britain. He holds the record for the highest points-scorer in Super League history and earned many individual accolades including the Lance Todd Trophy (2005), Harry Sunderland Trophy (2009, 2012) and the  Golden Boot (2012).  Sinfield has been defence coach alongside Borthwick in their record-breaking run at Leicester Tigers.

“Sinfield was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2014 Birthday Honours for services to rugby league and Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2021 Birthday Honours for services to rugby league football and charitable fundraising.

“He has raised over £7m for charity and championed research in support of ex-Leeds teammate Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), his fundraising also honours former rugby union player Doddie Weir and former footballer Stephen Darby, both of whom were diagnosed with MND.”