Steve Borthwick makes major coaching shake-up in wake of Andy Farrell’s British and Irish Lions decision
From left to right: Steve Borthwick, Lee Blackett and Byron McGuigan
Bath attack coach Lee Blackett and Sale Sharks defence guru Byron McGuigan will join Steve Borthwick’s England coaching ticket this summer.
The pair have both earned high plaudits for their impact in their respective roles, with Bath one of the best attacking sides in the Premiership and McGuigan heralded as the man behind Sale’s impressive defence.
Blackett will step straight into the void left by Richard Wigglesworth, who joins Andy Farrell’s team for the British and Irish Lions this summer, while McGuigan comes in as an assistant coach.
Steve Borthwick makes coaching shake-up ahead of Americas tour
Commenting on the news, England boss Borthwick said: “Lee and Byron will be excellent additions to our coaching group this summer.
“England have traditionally travelled to Argentina when the British and Irish Lions play. It is a summer series that has always provided a fantastic opportunity for Premiership coaches to work in the Test environment. I am delighted that we are able to do just that once again.
“Lee and Byron both have a mindset and approach to their coaching that very much align with how we want to continue to play.
“Lee has a proven track record of developing teams that play smart and effective attacking rugby. Byron brings an energy and strong understanding of the game that underpins an aggressive defence.”
Bath coach Blackett began his coaching career in 2012 with Rotherham Titans, before heading to Wasps as attack coach in 2015. He later became Wasps head coach and led them to a Premiership Final in 2021.
After the collapse of the historic club, he moved to the Scarlets before later returning back to the Premiership to join Johann van Graan in the West Country. He has also served as England A head coach this season, leading them to victory over Ireland A.
“It’s a huge honour to be asked to join the England coaching team,” said Blackett.
“This is a really exciting group of players, and I’m looking forward to working with them and the coaching team for what should be a fantastic challenge.”
South African-native McGuigan, who won 10 caps for Scotland during his playing career, initially began his coaching career for local sides Sandbach RFC, Bowdon RFC and Rossendale RFC before joining Alex Sanderson’s staff full-time following his retirement in 2023. In November, he was appointed as Sale’s new defence coach.
“It’s a huge honour to be part of the England setup,” added McGuigan. “I’m excited to contribute to the environment that is being built within the England squad.”
Current defence coach Joe El-Abd will also tour with the team, with McGuigan likely to assist him in preparing England’s defence.
In addition, Phil Morrow will also begin his role as head of team performance on a permanent basis.
England begin their summer tour with a two-Test series against Argentina, before heading up to face the USA.
