Tony Smith is Warrington's new head of coaching and rugby, but will continue in his role as England head coach in a part-time capacity.
Australian steps down from his position as RFL technical director
Tony Smith has been appointed Warrington's new head of coaching and rugby, but will continue in his role as England head coach in a part-time capacity.
However, Smith has stepped down from his position as the Rugby Football League's technical director in order to take his new post at the Wolves.
The 42-year-old former Huddersfield and Leeds boss has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract and will work alongside current coach James Lowes at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.
Warrington have endured the worst possible start to the new Super League campaign losing all three of their matches, that following on from a five-match losing streak at the end of last season.
The Wolves had promised to
make an announcement on the future of under-pressure Lowes on Thursday, but have decided to retain his services and draft in the experienced Smith to work alongside him.
Somewhat ironically, Smith's first match with Warrington will be against leaders Leeds Rhinos who he led to Grand Final glory in 2007 before becoming full-time national coach.
In the wake of Smith's move, the RFL are to consider appointing a new technical director as part of their ongoing review of last year's disastrous World Cup performance by England in Australia.
However, Smith will still lead England in the mid-season international fixture against France in Paris and will also be in charge for the Four Nations tournament in October and November, when his contract with the RFL runs out.
Richard Lewis, the RFL's executive chairman, explained: "Tony indicated to us in January his desire to return to club coaching at the end of his contract which runs until the end of 2009.
"This has been factored into our World Cup review, which we will report back on in April, and our new structural plans for our performance and coaching departments.
"The only thing that has changed since January is the timetable, with Tony asking to be relieved of his duties as RFL technical director sooner rather then later so that he can get back into club coaching.
"All parties are pleased that Tony will remain as England national coach on a part-time basis and we are confident that he remains the right man to lead England into this autumn's Four Nations tournament."
