How will Wane’s time in charge be judged?
In terms of raw facts, he failed to win a home World Cup or even make the final in 2022, and lost all three games of an historic Ashes series against Australia last year with just two tries scored.
Yet, there were many highlights on the journey too. Strong NRL-packed Tonga and Samoa sides were brushed aside without loss here, while aside from that World Cup semi-final, the performances created an impressive buzz.
He was excellent with the media and the players love playing for him – those who he picked, at least. Those on his periphery, such as Jake Connor, will potentially see their international route revived following this development.
If there was a criticism of Wane, you could say some players did not fit his personality type even if they seemed to add something to the personnel mix. There was a nod to control and structure over maverick chaos. Sometimes you need something different against elite opposition.
Whoever comes in, though, will be hamstrung by the same issues Wane faced.
The calendar works against England, with no space for friendlies or even training camps on the paddock during the season, such is demand on clubs and players.
In a World Cup year, it might have been wiser to seek continuity and revamp later.
The new appointment will have no time to instil new philosophies and gameplans, which are vital.
If England were far from beating Australia with a sense of stability and growth, how do they get closer having switched tack and ripped up the plan?
Fair play to Wane. He has stepped aside to give England the chance to go a different route and likely a part-time one.
There ought to be no shortage of candidates, despite the sense of having a hand tied behind one’s back in taking on the responsibility.
Wakefield’s Daryl Powell, Wigan boss Matt Peet and St Helens’ Paul Rowley are all coaches who would bring something to the table if appointed.