England add Blackett, McGuigan to coaching staff
Steve Borthwick has strengthened his coaching team for the upcoming summer tour
©PA
England Rugby head coach Steve Borthwick has strengthened his coaching setup ahead of the summer tour to Argentina and the United States by adding Lee Blackett and Byron McGuigan to his team.
This move is seen as crucial with several regular players and coaches engaged with the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.
Blackett, currently the attack coach at Bath, will step in temporarily to fill the role of Richard Wigglesworth, who is unavailable due to Lions commitments.
Blackett has been instrumental in reviving Bath’s attacking game and is widely regarded as one of the most innovative offensive coaches in English rugby. His appointment is expected to provide fresh attacking impetus during the summer fixtures.
Alongside him, Byron McGuigan, a former Scotland international and now the defence coach at Sale Sharks, joins to assist Joe El-Abd in leading England’s defensive preparations.
McGuigan made a swift transition from player to coach after his retirement in 2023 and has since been praised for Sale’s solid defensive record.
The England squad will first face Argentina in La Plata on July 5, followed by a second match in San Juan on July 12. They will conclude the tour with a test match against the United States in Washington on July 19.
This summer tour is seen as a valuable platform for development, especially with many senior figures tied up with the Lions.
Speaking about the appointments, Borthwick said, "Lee and Byron both have a mindset and approach to their coaching that very much align with how we want to continue to play."
Borthwick emphasized that this tour provides an opportunity not only for players but also for Premiership coaches to showcase and sharpen their skills at the international level.
He highlighted Blackett’s attacking brilliance and McGuigan’s energetic defensive methods as key ingredients for England's evolving playing style.
Both coaches are expected to return to their club roles after the tour. However, their temporary inclusion will be critical as England navigates a challenging schedule without some of its established stars.
