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Scotland Women’s Head Coach Bryan Easson has confirmed he will leave Scottish Rugby following the upcoming Rugby World Cup, ending a 25-year tenure in high-performance roles with the organisation.
The announcement comes as Scottish Rugby prepares to bring the professional women’s programme back under home soil post-tournament — a pivotal transition in the women's game.
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Easson said the timing felt right.
“It has been the greatest honour of my coaching career to lead the Scotland Women’s national team through one of the most significant and inspiring periods in its history,” he said.
Under Easson, Scotland reached unprecedented heights, climbing from 11th in the world rankings to a record-breaking fifth — currently sitting at seventh — and qualifying for back-to-back Rugby World Cups.
“We’ve experienced unforgettable highs: qualifying for two Rugby World Cups, winning WXV2, and competing with the best in the world,” Easson reflected.
“These moments are etched in our collective memory.”
But the journey wasn’t without challenges.
“We’ve also faced real challenges, tough results, setbacks, and times when belief was tested,” he admitted.
“None of it… would have been possible without an exceptional group of players and colleagues who showed remarkable strength, unity and character.”
Easson paid tribute to his core team throughout the campaign:
“I want to especially acknowledge Tyrone Holmes (Defence Coach), Ellen Dickson (Team Manager) and Rachel Malcolm… Their leadership, dedication and belief have been instrumental.”
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages. A standout moment of his tenure was the historic introduction of professional contracts for Scotland Women in 2022.
“That was a landmark step that speaks to how far the game has come,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud to have played a part in that progress and in building a foundation for the future.”
Easson leaves with pride in what’s been built — and hopes to have made a lasting mark.
“I’ve always believed in leaving the jersey in a better place and I hope that’s what I’ve done.
To every player, coach, and colleague I’ve had the privilege to work alongside — thank you.”
EDITORS PICKS:
GUESSING EVERY HOME NATIONS NEXT HEAD COACH
With World Cup cycles turning over and top jobs hanging in the balance, we’re diving headfirst into the crystal ball to predict who’ll be leading each home nation into their next chapter.
Some appointments feel inevitable. Others? Wildcards waiting in the wings. Let’s break it down.
WALES: Steve Tandy
This one feels inevitable. Wales haven’t had a new full-time boss since Warren Gatland first left in 2019—yes, technically he’s back, but the end is near.
Enter Steve Tandy.
Currently Scotland’s defence guru, Tandy has quietly built a stellar rep in coaching circles. Six years of consistently smart work with Gregor Townsend’s men has put him firmly on the WRU’s radar.
Insiders say Tandy’s name keeps surfacing in WRU boardrooms, and new performance chief Dave Reddin is reportedly a fan. The timing lines up, and Tandy knows Welsh rugby inside out from his Ospreys days.
Franco Smith and Simon Easterby have also been linked, but Tandy’s the front-runner—and it’s not close.
IRELAND: Paul O'Connell
Andy Farrell isn’t going anywhere yet—but when he does, it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Paul O’Connell stepping up.
The former Ireland captain has quietly carved out a strong coaching résumé. He’s currently working wonders with the Irish pack and has built trust within the camp.
He’s not just a legend on the pitch—three Lions tours, 108 Ireland caps, two Heineken Cups with Munster—O’Connell brings leadership, intensity, and serious rugby IQ.
He's turned down Munster twice, citing inexperience and readiness. But if Farrell steps aside post-2025 or after the next World Cup, don’t be surprised if O’Connell finally says yes.
SCOTLAND: Franco Smith
Gregor Townsend’s days may be numbered. Out of contract next year and underwhelming at two World Cups, the SRU may be ready to turn the page.
Franco Smith could be that next chapter.
He’s taken Glasgow from inconsistent to irresistible, with an attacking edge that suits Scotland’s natural strengths. A former Italy boss, Smith’s vision is bold, and his impact immediate.
There’s also a wildcard: Greig Laidlaw. Coaching in Japan, still cutting his teeth, but with 76 caps and a reputation for leadership, the former captain could be a long-term option.
ENGLAND: Andy Farrell
Here's a curveball. England might try to bring Andy Farrell home when Borthwick departs following the 2027 Rugby World Cup
Farrell’s locked in with Ireland until after the World Cup, and he’s currently leading the British & Irish Lions—but there’s unfinished business with the RFU. He was part of the England setup that flamed out at the 2015 home World Cup, and that still stings.
Should Ireland’s cycle end and England come calling, don’t rule it out.
The RFU loves a redemption story—and Farrell might be ready to write his own.
RUGBY QUIZ:
Think you’re a true rugby nut? It's time to put your Lions knowledge to the test.
12 years have passed since Warren Gatland’s men roared to a famous series win over Australia, but how well do you really remember the iconic 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?
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