World Cup national head coach loses job

With the Rugby League World Cup set to take centre stage at the end of 2022, nations are beginning to put together squads and staff that have the potential to win it all at the end.

And, with years of preparation under their belt, teams will be looking for continuity and stability more than ever in the next few months.

However, the same cannot be true of Ireland – home to the likes of Super League men Oliver Roberts and Brad Singleton – who parted ways with their head coach Stuart Littler at the end of March after discussions with the hierarchy.

Jim Reynolds, Chairman of the Rugby League Ireland Board, revealed on the Rugby League Ireland website why the decision had been made, stating: “We would emphasise that this event in no way diminishes the sincere high esteem that Stuart is, and will always be, held in by RLI after his illustrious playing and coaching career with Ireland.

“We especially mention his 19 senior caps over a ten year playing career that saw him score 40 points and we thank him for steering us through qualification for RLWC2021 as Head Coach.

“RLI has decided to go in a different coaching direction in this run up to competing in RLWC2021 later this year and shall be issuing another update on our Coaching Team on Monday the 11th.

“We wish Stuart the very best of luck and success for the future in his school teaching and Rugby League coaching careers.”

It hasn’t yet been confirmed who will take over as the Wolfhounds prepare for the major tournament.