Five Things To Know About Irish Rugby Interim Head Coach Simon Easterby
Five Things To Know About Irish Rugby Interim Head Coach Simon Easterby
Who is Irish Rugby's interim head coach Simon Easterby who is taking over from Andy Farrell whilst he is away with the British and Irish Lions tour.
Simon Easterby, a former Ireland international and seasoned rugby coach, has been appointed interim head coach of the Irish rugby team for the 2025 Six Nations and summer tour. The Irish Rugby Football Union confirmed the 49-year-old will step into the role while Andy Farrell focuses on leading the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.
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Easterby, who earned 65 caps for Ireland between 2000 and 2008 and captained the side in 2005, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. He previously served as head coach of Llanelli Scarlets before joining Ireland’s backroom staff in 2014, where he has been a key figure in the team’s defensive strategies.
Six Nations 2025 Roster & Squad Tracker Including Ireland Rugby
The appointment marks a significant milestone in Easterby’s coaching career, and he expressed his excitement about leading the national team. Easterby will also coach the Emerging Ireland squad in South Africa next month as he prepares for his expanded responsibilities.
Simon Easterby Distinguished Playing Career
Simon Easterby earned his first Ireland cap in the 2000 Six Nations against Scotland. A reliable and dynamic back-row, he went on to represent Ireland 65 times, captaining the team in 2005. His international playing career spanned from 2000 to 2008.
British & Lions Experience
Easterby was called up as a replacement for the British & Irish Lions on their 2005 tour to New Zealand, where he won two caps. This experience as a player gives him unique insight into the demands of top-level rugby tours.
Simon Easterby Coaching Journey
After retiring from playing with Llanelli Scarlets, where he became a respected figure, Easterby transitioned into coaching. He served as head coach of the Scarlets from 2012 to 2014 before joining the Irish Rugby setup. He has been part of Ireland’s backroom team for nearly a decade, focusing on defence.
Ireland Rugby Interim Head Coach Appointment
Easterby has been named interim head coach of Ireland for the 2025 Six Nations and summer tour, while Andy Farrell leads the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia. Easterby previously led the Emerging Ireland squad, showcasing his leadership and coaching capabilities.
Personal Life and Media Connections
Easterby is married to Sarra Elgan Rees, a prominent sports presenter known for hosting rugby coverage for major broadcasters like Sky Sports, ESPN, and the BBC. Sarra’s career in broadcasting began after studying theatre, media, and music, and she notably anchored S4C’s coverage of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
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