Sam Tomkins may have ended his international playing career after the World Cup in 2022, but he will return to the England camp for this autumn’s home series against Samoa as Team Manager.
Tomkins, who scored 18 tries in 29 appearances for the national team, has been appointed by his former England and Wigan coach Shaun Wane to fill a behind-the-scenes administrative role.
The 35-year-old has been working in an off-field capacity for the Catalans Dragons for most of the 2024 Betfred Super League season after confirming his retirement last autumn – although he did make a surprise playing return last month.
He has also joined Sky Sports as a regular contributor to their Betfred Super League coverage.
Tomkins began his new role ahead of a gathering of England contenders last month, and will work closely with Wane and his support staff as they finalise preparations for the Samoa series over the coming weeks – with a squad to be announced on Friday morning.
Andy Last and Lee Briers will rejoin Wane’s coaching team, re-establishing the set-up for last autumn’s 3-0 home series win against Tonga.
Tickets are on sale for the two Tests – at The Brick Community Stadium in Wigan on Sunday October 27, and AMT Headingley in Leeds on Saturday November 2.
“It’s an exciting prospect for us all,” said Tomkins.
“Samoa have got some fantastic players, as we saw in the World Cup, and they’re going to be even stronger with the likes of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck coming on board.
“But don’t underestimate the quality of our England players – and this series is another massive step as we look ahead to a tour of Australia next year, and the World Cup in Australia in 2026.
“We’ve got two great venues in Wigan and Leeds, and I’m really looking forward to being involved.”
Sky Sports will broadcast Tomkins: Last Chance this Friday night (September 6) at 11pm – an original documentary which followed the Wigan, Catalans and England star through the Dragons’ run to last year’s Grand Final, and reflected on his remarkable career.
