Super League newcomers Catalans Dragons have sacked English coach Steve Deakin six weeks before their first match. The French club parted company with Deakin because of differences between him and the players.
Former Great Britain coach David Waite, a consultant to the Perpignan-based outfit, will take temporary charge until they find a permanent successor.
"He has been removed as coach for incompatibility with the players," said general manager Christophe Levy.
Deakin was appointed by the club, then known as Union Treiziste Catalan, in 2003 to oversee their preparations for entry to Super League.
Under his guidance they won the French cup and league double last year.
Deakin had been working as assistant coach at Huddersfield after previous spells with London Broncos, Keighley and Sheffield.
Australian Waite, who stepped down as Britain coach after the 2003 Ashes series, will be assisted by Paul Donkin and Sebastien Munoz.
MMIX
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