St Helens have appointed Australia boss Kevin Walters as their head coach on a three-year deal starting from the 2027 Super League season. Walters, who currently leads the Kangaroos, guided Australia to a 3-0 Ashes series victory over England last autumn. He previously coached Brisbane Broncos to the 2023 NRL Grand Final and has experience in Super League with Catalans Dragons in 2009 and 2010. The appointment follows the sacking of Paul Rowley after just 17 games, with Eamonn O'Carroll serving as interim coach. Reports suggest this is the largest coaching deal in St Helens' 153-year history. Walters will take charge after this autumn's Rugby League World Cup concludes.

On joining St Helens, Walters praised the club's iconic status and expressed his commitment to blending his experience with the club's winning culture. He highlighted the importance of creating the right environment for players, staff, and the wider community.

Chairman Eamonn McManus emphasized Walters' vast experience at both club and representative levels, noting the major career sacrifices Walters is making by leaving Australia. McManus described the appointment as a major statement of ambition for both St Helens and Super League, thanking the ARL Commission for facilitating the move.

O'Carroll will remain as interim head coach until the end of the current season, with McManus praising his performance under testing circumstances.