Scotland appoint Chris Chester and John Duffy as co-coaches

Scotland Rugby League have appointed Chris Chester and John Duffy as joint head coaches.

The pair take over the reins from Steve McCormack, who enjoyed a 13-year stint as Bravehearts boss.

Chester has impressed since becoming head coach of Super League side Wakefield Trinity in 2016, while Duffy has done a very good job in establishing Featherstone Rovers as a top-four club in the Championship.

Keith Hogg, chairman of Scotland Rugby League, said: “We were very impressed with the number of applicants for the role.

“Applications came from all over the world and included a number of experienced coaches, many of whom have played for Scotland.

“We were very pleased with the enthusiasm of so many coaches to be involved with Scotland Rugby League and thank them all for their interest in the role.”

Chester said: “I really enjoyed my involvement with Scotland in 2012 and have watched their development since then with considerable interest.

“It is great to see the progress that has been made in recent years. I am very excited to be leading the next stage in Scotland’s development and to be working with some very good players who are enormously committed to the Bravehearts.”

Duffy added: “Being involved with Scotland has been an important part of my life and my family’s life for 20 years.

“I am enormously proud of the progress that we have made over the years and immensely honoured to be appointed as head coach.

“I know that Chris and I will work well together and look forward to leading the team in the 2018 European Championships.”

Chester and Duffy will lead the team in the 2018 European Championships against Ireland, Wales and France.