Kevin Sinfield, former captain of the Leeds Rhinos and England rugby union league, changes his code by joining Steve Borthwick’s coaching staff at the Gallagher Premiership Leicester Tigers club; Sinfield replaces outgoing Mike Ford at Welford Road

The Leicester Tigers have appointed Kevin Sinfield, former England rugby league captain and the Leeds Rhinos, as defense coach.

The former England rugby league captain, 40, will join Steve Borthwick’s coaching staff ahead of the 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership season.

Sinfield, who stepped down as Rhinos rugby manager earlier Thursday, arrives at Welford Road replacing Mike Ford, who will step down at the end of the 2020/21 season.

“It’s a big challenge but I know I’m ready and – after speaking with Steve – I can’t wait to join the club at this point in their journey and get to work at Leicester,” Sinfield said .

“I am delighted to be able to join a great club like Leicester Tigers with such a great history and such a great fan base.”

Sinfield was the Rhinos’ greatest captain in club history, leading them to seven Grand Final wins and two Challenge Cup wins in an 18-year career, but has spent the last three years in a role administrative and affirms that the time has come for a new challenge.

Sinfield said of his decision to leave Leeds: “I love the club and the people I work with, but I think now is the time for a new challenge. In addition to the role change, I have changed during my 18 month experiences both at the club and through my fundraising activities.

“I am proud of our record over the past three years as we have rediscovered the Rhino spirit within this squad with a team of talented, local young players secured on long term contracts for the foundations of a new era of success in the years to come. “

Sinfield received an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honors for fundraising and service to the rugby league.

Sinfield (left) received an OBE in Queen’s Birthday Honors for fundraising and service to the rugby league

As well as being Leeds’ top scorer, Sinfield is the Super League’s top scorer and the third best scorer in British rugby league history. He also won 14 caps for Great Britain and 26 more for England.

Tigers head coach Borthwick added: “It’s amazing to welcome someone of Kevin’s caliber and experience to our club.

“He’s a serial winner and an inspiring character who has the hardworking and enduring qualities that we look for at Leicester Tigers.”

Meanwhile, assistant coaches Tom Harrison and Matt Smith have signed new contracts.