Farrell Announces Coaching Team for British & Irish Lions Tour
Andy Farrell has revealed his coaching team for the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia this summer, featuring a strong Irish contingent. The head coach has selected a largely familiar group, including Ireland coaches, with only one Englishman, Richard Wigglesworth, joining the setup alongside Scotland’s John Dalziel.
Lions Coaching Staff Finalised Ahead of Squad Announcement
With his backroom staff now confirmed, Farrell will now concentrate on the highly anticipated squad announcement, scheduled for a live event in May. Prior to their journey to Perth, the Lions will face Argentina in June for their inaugural match as a newly formed team.
Irish Coaches Prominent in Farrell’s Selection
Farrell has prioritised working with trusted individuals with whom he has established relationships. The most notable appointment is Simon Easterby, who will link up with the Lions shortly after leading the Irish national team as interim head coach during the Six Nations Championship.
Easterby was initially slated to continue in the interim role for Ireland’s matches against Georgia and Portugal. However, these plans have been revised following his acceptance of Farrell’s invitation to become part of the prestigious Lions coaching group.
Ireland will navigate their upcoming fixtures without several key personnel, as Andrew Goodman and John Fogerty will also be joining the Lions’ setup. It is understood that Paul O’Connell was approached to participate in the Lions tour but declined, opting instead to take charge of Ireland in Farrell and Easterby’s absence.
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Wigglesworth Lone Englishman, Dalziel Represents Scotland
Richard Wigglesworth will be the sole English representative within the coaching team, continuing his working relationship with Farrell from their time together at Saracens. Wigglesworth’s involvement has the full support of Steve Borthwick, who has previously encouraged both players and coaches to embrace Lions opportunities, drawing from his own positive experiences as an assistant coach in 2017.
Scotland’s John Dalziel completes Farrell’s coaching roster, with no Welsh coaches included in this year’s selection.
Farrell: Coaching Team Offers “Versatility and Fresh Perspective”
Speaking about his selections, Farrell stated: “Assembling a Lions coaching team is both an honour and a privilege – and the conversations with this group of coaches underscored the unique significance of this tour. This coaching team is characterised by versatility and interchangeable skills, assets that are crucial for a Lions Tour.”
“I believe we have a superb blend of expertise, and each individual will contribute their distinct character and approach to the team environment. A Lions Tour demands a comprehensive understanding of the challenges both on and off the field, and the fresh insights within this coaching group are something I eagerly anticipate.”
British & Irish Lions Coaching Team for Australia Tour
- Head Coach: Andy Farrell
- John Dalziel
- Richard Wigglesworth
- Simon Easterby
- John Fogarty
- Andrew Goodman