Kevin Sinfield was set to step down from his role with England, but the coach is now set to stay after being offered a new deal.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Sinfield explained that his decision to leave is based on personal factors, though he remains committed to coaching in the future.
“I think you will understand my main focus is the team this week. I don’t want anything to disrupt our performance. They are personal reasons, and I think for that they need to remain private. I think it’s important my reasons are kept private for now,” Sinfield stated.
When asked about his future, he said: “Do I still want to coach? Yes. What that looks like, I’m not sure at this stage. I’m pretty excited about what’s to come this year with England, and then there is a lot of unknown for me and I don’t know what it looks like going forward. I’ll make the best of it. I don’t know where that is or what it looks like, but I’ve really enjoyed coaching.”
Despite these comments, Sinfield’s future with England remains uncertain as he has reportedly been offered a three-year extension.
It is believed that the Rugby Football Union (RFU) has intensified efforts to retain Sinfield in recent weeks, following the unexpected announcement of Felix Jones’ departure. Jones, who replaced Sinfield as England’s defence coach ahead of the Six Nations, will leave his position later this year.
Sinfield’s current contract with the RFU is set to expire in November, and he has yet to make a decision on whether he will sign a new deal. The 43-year-old, who joined the England set-up alongside Steve Borthwick from Leicester Tigers in December 2022, had initially planned to leave after the summer Tests in Japan and New Zealand but agreed to stay on for the upcoming autumn internationals against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan.
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
Owens said: Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
