Scotland's John Dalziel Joins British & Irish Lions Coaching Staff: Key Additions Ahead of 2025 Tour

Scotland’s John Dalziel Joins Lions Coaching Staff
Scotland forwards coach John Dalziel is poised to be named as part of Andy Farrell’s British & Irish Lions coaching team, with the official announcement expected on Wednesday. Dalziel, who has been instrumental in Scotland’s set-piece improvements since joining Gregor Townsend’s staff in 2020, will collaborate with England’s Richard Wigglesworth and Ireland’s John Fogarty to shape the Lions’ strategy for the 2025 tour.

A Blend of Experience and Innovation
Farrell’s selections emphasize a balance of proven leadership and fresh ideas. Ireland’s interim head coach Simon Easterby is anticipated to oversee defense, while Wigglesworth—fresh from England’s standout Six Nations campaign—will lead attack and skills development. Notably, Dalziel’s inclusion follows the surprise omission of Paul O’Connell, the revered former Lions captain, underscoring Farrell’s focus on tactical versatility.

Tour Expectations and Key Dates
With the Lions squad announcement scheduled for 8 May, all eyes are on their opening match against Argentina in Dublin on 20 June. The coaching team’s immediate challenge will be integrating distinct national philosophies—Scotland’s forward power, England’s attacking flair, and Ireland’s defensive structure—into a cohesive unit capable of ending the Lions’ 12-year Test series drought.

Strategic Implications

• Dalziel’s expertise in forward play could elevate the Lions’ scrum and lineout efficiency.
• Wigglesworth’s influence may replicate England’s Six Nations try-scoring form (5 tries/game).
• Easterby’s defensive systems, honed with Ireland, will be critical against southern hemisphere opponents.

Related: The Lions’ last series win came in 2013 under Warren Gatland in Australia.