Scotland appoint Lee Radford as defence coach
Scotland have appointed Lee Radford as defence coach ahead of the autumn internationals, with the former Hull FC enforcer and Northampton Saints assistant bringing serious defensive pedigree as Gregor Townsend reshapes his backroom staff following Steve Tandy’s departure to Wales.
Who is Lee Radford?
Radford, 46, made his name in rugby league before transitioning into rugby union coaching. At Northampton Saints, he has served as defence coach, earning a reputation for physicality, line-speed and contact dominance — qualities Scotland will look to harness at Test level.
Job-share secondment for international windows
Northampton Saints have confirmed a secondment agreement that will see Radford link up with Scottish Rugby during this season’s international windows, including the Autumn Series and the 2026 Six Nations. The arrangement allows him to continue his club duties while contributing to Scotland’s national set-up.
What it means for Scotland
The appointment is a significant step as Townsend recalibrates his coaching team. With the Quilter Nations Series matches in November on the horizon, Scotland will aim to maintain and sharpen their defensive steel under Radford’s guidance, building cohesion ahead of the Six Nations.
What they said
Describing the move as an “incredibly proud moment,” Radford said he has “always aspired to coach on the international stage within rugby union.”
Next steps
Radford is due to begin work with the national squad ahead of the November window, embedding systems and standards as Scotland target a seamless transition following Tandy’s exit and a strong start to the new international season.
