Kevin Sinfield is set to stay as a coach for England rugby union – despite announcing in January that he would leave.
At the time of his January announcement, Sinfield – who was awarded a CBE earlier this year for his incredible fundraising efforts – cited “personal reasons that need to remain private for now” as the reason for his departure.
Initially, he was supposed to leave after the July tests against New Zealand. He said then: “It’s the best job I’ve ever had – apart from playing! I’ve really enjoyed working with the players.”
However, head coach Steve Borthwick is eager to keep him, according to The Telegraph. Speaking about Sinfield, he said: “You can’t overstate the value he’s brought, what he’s done and the relationships he’s built.”
The squad also seems to be very supportive of him. Captain Jamie George said last month: “I couldn’t be keener for him to stay. The role he’s playing is absolutely invaluable and he’s an incredible man.”
Now, The Times has reported that it’s almost a done deal, and that he will indeed stay on with the team beyond the original agreement.
His new role is expected to involve continuing as a skills and kicking coach and mentoring younger players, although he will be paid as a consultant rather than a full-time employee. This means he could be involved in other projects between England camps.
Fans Outraged by 2025 Six Nations Kick-Off Time, it’s not great for anyone
The tournament commences on Friday, 31 January, with France hosting Wales in Paris, with kick-off at 9:15 pm local time. This hasn’t gone down well with fans.
One fan wrote: “Rugby is already declining in Wales and now children won’t be able to watch their first game. Bad idea,”
A second said: “Getting to the Stade de France at the best of time is hard. Getting back after a 9:15 kick-off time will be a nightmare,”
Another simply stated: “Who’s f***ing s*** idea was this?”
England will play the following day, as Scotland takes on Italy at Murrayfield, as announced by tournament organisers.
As per this year, the 2025 Championship will see BBC and ITV sharing coverage in the UK, with S4C offering Welsh language options. France Television will be the home of the Championship for French fans, RTE and Virgin Media will once again cover the games in Ireland. In Italy, Sky Italia will continue their coverage of the Championship in 2025. The host broadcast coverage will also be complemented by widespread international broadcast coverage and a World Feed service.
2025 Siz Nations Fixtures
ROUND 1
- Friday 31 January
- France vs Wales – 8.15pm
- Saturday 1 February
- Scotland vs Italy – 2.15pm
- Ireland vs England – 4.45pm
ROUND 2
- Saturday 8 February
- Italy vs Wales – 2.15pm
- England vs France – 4.45pm
- Sunday 9 February
- Scotland vs Ireland – 3pm