Rugby league-Walters confirmed as Kangaroos coach for Ashes tour
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SYDNEY - Former Brisbane Broncos and Queensland coach Kevin Walters will lead Australia's Kangaroos on this year's three-test tour of England, where rugby league's Ashes will be contested for the first time in 22 years.
The post became vacant when Mal Meninga was recruited to head up the new National Rugby League (NRL) expansion team in Perth and 57-year-old Walters was favourite to get the job once Brad Fittler ruled himself out.
"Kevin has played for the Kangaroos, had a successful coaching career with Brisbane Broncos and Queensland Maroons, and will bring that expertise into the national team for the Ashes," Australian rugby league supremo Peter V'landys said in a statement on Wednesday.
"Kevin has toured with the Kangaroos as a player, was a leader as a player and as a coach. His coaching pedigree is a natural fit for the national team."
Walters has been handed a contract only for the three matches in London, Liverpool and Leeds in late October and early November, but a good showing by Australia could earn him an extension until next year's much-delayed World Cup.
Similar to the cricket rivalry of the same name, rugby league's Ashes were contested between Australia and Britain 39 times between 1908 and 2003. Australia won the last 13 editions. REUTERS
