Warrington Wolves are replacing former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers boss Daryl Powell with Sam Burgess in 2024 but questions now have to be asked about this.

However, they are not the kind of questions raising whether Burgess won’t come but rather if he could start his job with the club much earlier than expected.

This comes after a shocking development down under. Despite being an icon at South Sydney Rabbitohs, Burgess has been forced out of the club with immediate effect.

This comes after he reportedly accused coach Jason Demetriou of preferential treatment towards Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker.

Following a meeting, Burgess has been released from his contract begging the question: could he make the move to the UK much earlier than expected?

Time will tell. The impending birth of his baby may mean he remains in Australia for now.

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.”

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.