Robbie Deans joins Barbarians coaching team

Robbie Deans has joined the Barbarians coaching group for their fixture against Wales at Allianz Stadium on June 27, adding another high-profile name to an already experienced backroom team.

The former Australia and Crusaders coach will link up with the invitational side before beginning his new role as Harlequins Performance Director.

Robbie Deans Joins Barbarians Coaching Team

Deans will work alongside former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and Racing 92 boss Patrice Collazo for the match against Wales.

The appointment gives the Barbarians an experienced coaching trio for one of the standout fixtures of their summer schedule. The Wales game will take place a week after the Barbarians face South Africa, giving the coaching group two major tests in quick succession.

Scott Robertson And Barbarians Add Experience

This latest move strengthens a coaching setup already packed with international pedigree. Deans is no stranger to the Barbarians and this will mark his ninth involvement with the famous invitational club.

Harlequins Appointment Follows Wales Fixture

Deans brings wide-ranging experience from club and international rugby. He enjoyed a successful period with the Crusaders, later coached Australia, and most recently spent more than a decade in Japan, where he won multiple league titles.

After the Barbarians fixture against Wales, he will officially move into Harlequins’ coaching structure for the 2026-27 season.

Barbarians president John Spencer said Deans embodies the club’s spirit and described his return as an exciting addition to the summer coaching group.

“We are honoured to be welcoming Robbie back into the coaching team this summer,” said Spencer.

“Robbie and the Barbarians have a long and proud history. He is a coach with the utmost respect across the world game, highlighted by his recent appointment in the U.K.

“He is a man and a coach who embodies the Barbarian F.C. club spirit and ethos, and having his vision and experience alongside Scott and Patrice this summer is hugely exciting.”