Former Hull KR head coach Tim Sheens resigns from Widnes Vikings

The ex-Kangaroos boss, one of the most experienced and highly-decorated coaches in rugby league history, was a high-profile and shock appointment when he was put in charge of the Championship club in October last year.

But Sheens, who turns 70 later this month and was sacked by Hull KR last June after a poor run of form, has now surprisingly left the club halfway through his two-year deal.

The Australian had overseen five wins from seven games when the sport was shutdown in March due to coronavirus.

Although Super League eventually resumed in August. the Championship and League 1, of course, did not.

A decision was made in July to cancel the season and many clubs are fearing for their futures given the financial problems brought on by the pandemic.

However, Sheens has been busy making a number of key signings for 2021 so his exit has come as a shock.

A statement read: "Widnes Vikings can confirm that Tim Sheens has resigned from his post as Head Coach of the club.

"Tim was appointed ahead of the 2020 season on a two-year deal, leading the club through their seven competitive fixtures before the cancellation of the campaign due to coronavirus.

"Following a heavily disrupted first season in charge, in which the club won five of their seven games played, Tim has made the decision to resign from his role at Widnes Vikings.

"The club would like to place on record their thanks to Tim for his efforts during his time at the Vikings, and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

"As a club, we are confident that the role of Head Coach at this prestigious club will attract a high level of interest, especially given the quality of the squad already assembled for 2021 and our loyal and passionate fan base.

"We will now take the necessary time needed to appoint a successor to Tim who can build upon the foundations and lead the club successfully into the future."