England Wheelchair coach Tom Coyd embraces privilege of flying flag in World Cup final

That is the message from head coach Tom Coyd as his wheelchair side prepare to face France in Friday's World Cup final.

The men's and women's teams exited their respective tournaments at the group stage, leaving Coyd's men as the country's last hope of success.

The defending champions have risen to the occasion impressively, booking their place in another decider with a commanding win over hosts Australia.

"We're grateful for that opportunity," said Coyd.

"I wouldn't characterise it as a responsibility; I'd look at it as a privilege. I want to frame that as something that we really relish.

"We had a lovely opportunity for quite a few days to connect with the men's and women's teams when they were staying in this hotel with us. The first-ever photo of all three teams that we managed to coordinate was awesome. I'm still in touch with people from both teams who continue to wish us well.

"To be flying the flag for England at this late stage of the Rugby League World Cup is an honour for us. We hope we can keep doing the country proud on Friday night."

In a repeat of the previous three finals, France stand between England and World Cup glory.

The French won close contests in 2013 and 2017 before England finally got their hands on the trophy after a dramatic clash in Manchester four years ago.

Coyd expects fine margins to once again prove crucial in the latest instalment of a fierce rivalry.

"Absolutely I do," he said.

"France have been one of the leaders of the game internationally since it began and every time we play them it's a great contest.

"In terms of the fine margins, if I had all the answers, I'd probably be a bit more at ease about the game. We'll worry about what we're going to do and the fine margins we can make the most of and capitalise on them."

England were roared to victory by a partisan home crowd in 2022 but reaching a final on Australian soil has been an altogether different challenge.

Four years on, the challenge has been as much about adapting to life on the other side of the world as preparing for another shot at the title.

"It's been harder," said Coyd.

"For me personally, the last one was a big challenge because I was very early in my coaching career. I had amazing help around me – and I realise that even more now because the challenge has got bigger and I still have an amazing level of help around me.

"To be away from home, that lack of familiarity brings with it a heightened level of stress sometimes but I've absolutely relished the challenge and learnt so much. My brain feels like it's doubled in size – or maybe that's just the headache I've got from all the thinking I've been doing!

"It's been a fantastic experience. When I get back and personally reflect on everything that's happened, I'll feel so much richer for what I've been a part of."