Ex-Saints boss Wellens joins NRL's Cowboys

Paul Wellens was a St Helens legend during his playing career and made 495 appearances before joining the coaching staff in 2015

Former St Helens boss Paul Wellens has joined NRL side North Queensland Cowboys as assistant coach to Todd Payton.

Wellens left Saints in October following the conclusion of a season which saw them reach the play-off semi-final, where they were beaten by eventual champions Hull KR.

After his appointment at Saints for 2023, Wellens won the World Club Challenge in Australia when his side beat Penrith Panthers, but he could not continue the dominance of his predecessors Kristian Woolf and Justin Holbrook.

"Paul was one of the great players of the modern era in the Super League, who has developed into a very accomplished coach," Cowboys general manager of football Micheal Luck said.

"He is a winner and he is a competitor. He has extensive experience as both an assistant and head coach and we are thrilled to secure his services."

Wellens will be joined by former Wigan Warriors and Hull KR half-back Blake Green in assisting Payton when the NRL season kicks off next year.

"It's exciting to have such great additions to our football programme," Payton said.

"Each of our staff bring a unique skillset and we're looking forward to working together to give our team the greatest opportunity to be at their best week in and week out."