Craig Richards is stepping down as England women’s coach which comes as no surprise after he was in tears after yesterday’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final defeat to New Zealand.
The RFL have also teased a new dawn for the women’s game with a “further announcement regarding the future of the England Women set-up, including a new Head Coach, after the completion of the Rugby League World Cup.”
Their full statement reads:
The RFL today confirms that Craig Richards is leaving his role as Head Coach of England Women, and thanks him for his commitment and contribution to the development of Women’s and Girls’ Rugby League over the last five years.
Dave Rotheram, the RFL’s Chief On-Field Officer, said:
“Craig was appointed to take over immediately after the 2017 World Cup in Australia, and has developed the team through this current World Cup cycle – which was extended by 12 months as a result of the pandemic.
“That included a groundbreaking tour of Papua New Guinea in 2019, which followed an appearance in the World Nines in Sydney, and also required him to adapt to the unique challenges presented by Covid.
“He has overseen a thorough programme of developing the players and, despite the pandemic, delivered a strong International playing programme in the lead-up to this current campaign featuring matches versus both Wales and France in 2021 and 2022.
“He has also been an excellent ambassador for Women’s Rugby League. On behalf of the RFL, we thank him for his immense commitment.”
The RFL will make a further announcement regarding the future of the England Women set-up, including a new Head Coach, after the completion of the Rugby League World Cup.