Sam Burgess issues statement after shockingly being released from his contract

Warrington Wolves shocked the world when they confirmed that former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers boss Daryl Powell would be replaced by Sam Burgess in 2024.

Burgess is perhaps the best player the British game has produced in the 21st Century starting out at the Bradford Bulls prior to becoming the best forward on the planet at South Sydney Rabbitohs where he became a club icon winning the 2014 Grand Final as he picked up the Man of the Match with a broken cheekbone and all.

He has been working as assistant coach for the club in 2023 but in a shocking twist he has effectively been forced out after accusing Head Coach Jason Demetriou of preferential treatment towards Cody Walker and Latrell Mitchell.

Thus, this morning Burgess was released from his role.

The Rabbitohs made the following statement:

“The South Sydney Rabbitohs have agreed with Sam Burgess today that he will be released from his assistant coaching duties for the remainder of the season to allow him to concentrate on his forthcoming role with the Warrington Wolves and the impending birth of his child.”

Sam Burgess responded with the following statement of his own:

“I’ve made the decision to step away from South Sydney, given the circumstances.

“My immediate focus is the upcoming birth of our baby and preparing for my new role at Warrington.”

Burgess will join the Wire for the 2024 Super League season having agreed a two-year contract.

Following his retirement from a decorated playing career in 2019, Burgess has transitioned into the coaching set-up at South Sydney Rabbitohs, currently working as an Assistant Coach for the NRL side.

Burgess is one of the most renowned and respected leaders in the global game. The former England captain famously led the Rabbitohs to the 2014 NRL title, being awarded the Clive Churchill Medal despite suffering a broken cheekbone in the opening minute.

He represented England and Great Britain on 26 occasions during his playing career and captained the national team to the World Cup Final in 2017 under the stewardship of Wayne Bennett.

As part of the review of the Rugby department, Gary Chambers will be promoted to Director of Rugby. He will have an overarching responsibility for the Rugby department from first team downwards.

Chambers will remain in interim charge for the remainder of the 2023 season before taking up the new role.