Scotland head coach Steve McCormack, and assistants Dave Rotheram and John Duffy, have committed their future to the team until after the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, which is expected to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
The trio led the Bravehearts to the quarter finals in 2013, against all the odds.
McCormack, who has held his position since 2004, said: “It would have been easy to say ‘We’ve done it, we’ve achieved what we wanted so I’ll go now’.
“But it’s not something to give up like that. We’ve got a youthful team and we’re all relishing the challenge to improve on last year and build on that success over the next four years. I’ve got a great staff, who all rose to the occasion at the World Cup, and it’s important to keep that continuity.”
Scotland expect to learn next week that their European Championship opponents in autumn will be France, Wales and Ireland, with the winners going into the 2016 Four Nations tournament alongside England, Australia and New Zealand. The nation that finishes bottom this year will be relegated from the European Championship in 2015 to make way for England, with the Great Britain Lions touring down under next year.
“If we can keep the team together – and I’m confident most of our players from last year will be available again this year – then we should be serious contenders for the Europeans,” said McCormack.
“Having the Four Nations as a prize for the winners is a huge incentive for our players, as is the opportunity of being picked for a Great Britain tour. It’s an exciting time for Scotland Rugby League.”
