Scotland forwards coach John Dalziel has been named as part of Andy Farrell’s staff for this summer’s British and Irish Lions tour of Australia. This prestigious appointment marks a significant milestone in Dalziel’s coaching career, reflecting his hard work and dedication to Scottish rugby.
The ten-game tour will kick off in June with a match against Argentina in Dublin on June 20. Following this initial fixture, the Lions will head Down Under to face a series of matches culminating in three tests against the Wallabies. The anticipation surrounding the tour is palpable, as it promises to showcase some of the best rugby talent from the British Isles.
Dalziel expressed his excitement about the opportunity, calling it a “pinch yourself moment.” He stated, “Being selected as assistant coach for the British and Irish Lions is the pinnacle for any coach and is something I’m hugely honoured about. It’s a real pinch yourself moment.” His enthusiasm reflects not only a personal achievement but also the pride of representing Scotland on such a significant stage.
Having joined the national team as assistant coach in August 2020, Dalziel has built a strong reputation within the rugby community. His previous experience includes a successful stint with the Glasgow Warriors and leading the Scotland U20 team to a historic fifth-place finish at the 2017 World Rugby U20 Championship in Georgia. This accomplishment included a squad with several current internationals, such as Darcy Graham, Blair Kinghorn, and Matt Fagerson.
The full Lions squad is set to be announced on May 8, and Dalziel is optimistic about the potential representation from Scotland. He noted, “We have our first coaches meeting this week in London and I would imagine the topic of selection will be high on the agenda. The players still have a lot of rugby to be played between now and the final selection, so even guys who missed out on the Six Nations through injury could still make a case to go on tour.” This statement highlights the competitive nature of rugby and the opportunities available for players to prove themselves.
Dalziel’s inclusion in the coaching staff is particularly noteworthy given the strong representation from Ireland in the team. Alongside Dalziel, the coaching staff includes Simon Easterby, John Fogarty, and Andrew Goodman, all from the Irish setup, as well as England’s Richard Wigglesworth. Farrell’s decision to include Dalziel ensures a diverse range of perspectives as the Lions prepare for their first Test series in 12 years.
Farrell emphasized the importance of having a versatile coaching team, stating, “This coaching group has versatility and are interchangeable in their skillset, which is a vital asset to have on a Lions Tour. I think we have a fantastic mix and every one of these guys will bring their own character and personality to the team.” This sentiment underscores the collaborative spirit that is essential for success in such a demanding tournament.
The Lions will face Argentina in Dublin as their opening match, which is expected to be a thrilling encounter. Dalziel remarked on the significance of this game, saying, “And what a start we have to the tour with the game against Argentina in Dublin - one of the form teams in the world right now. It will be a huge occasion with the Lions’ very first game in Ireland.” This match is not only a test of skill but also an opportunity for the team to build momentum as they embark on their tour.
As the Lions prepare for their tour, the excitement surrounding the event continues to grow. Rugby fans from all over the world are eager to witness the clash of titans as the Lions take on the Wallabies in a series of tests scheduled for July 19, July 26, and August 2. The last time the Lions toured Australia, they won the series 2-1 in 2013, and there is a strong desire to replicate that success.
Dalziel’s journey to this point has been marked by dedication and a commitment to excellence. He has often focused on keeping his head down and working hard to be the best coach he can be for Scotland. His appointment to the Lions coaching staff is a testament to his efforts and the recognition of his contributions to the sport.
In summary, John Dalziel’s selection as part of the British and Irish Lions coaching team is a significant achievement for both him and Scottish rugby. As the team gears up for a challenging tour, the blend of talent and experience within the coaching staff sets the stage for a thrilling summer of rugby.
