Appleby to make coaching return alongside England legend in June

Susie Appleby will make her coaching return with Barbarian F.C. this June for the team’s fixture with Wales at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

The former England international has not had a full-time coaching role since her departure from Premiership Women’s Rugby’s Exeter Chiefs at the end of last season.

Appleby will be head coach of the Barbarians for the fixture and current Red Roses defence coach Sarah Hunter will be an assistant. The fixture forms part of a double header against Wales’ men’s and women’s teams in West London.

Upon her appointment Appleby said: “I grew up watching the Baa-Baas. The black and white jersey is iconic and steeped in so much rugby history. It is an honour to be asked to coach the Barbarians alongside legend and friend, Sarah Hunter.

“I love free-flowing rugby so to be invited to work with world class players from around the globe and to be given free rein to encourage them to just play is a dream come true. I cannot wait.”

Hunter has been a member of the Red Roses’ coaching staff since her retirement in 2023. During her time donning an England jersey she made 141 appearances across a 16-year Test career. The 40-year-old focuses on the world champions’ defence.

Ahead of England’s Round 4 clash with Italy in Parma, the Red Roses are top of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations after consecutive back-to-back wins over Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Sarah Hunter said: “I’m incredibly proud to be asked to join the Barbarians coaching team for this fixture. It’s a real honour to work alongside Susie Appleby and be part of a team with such a rich history and legacy in the game.

“To have the opportunity to work with players from across the world, bringing different styles and experiences together, is incredibly special. I’m looking forward to connecting with players and staff and helping create a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

The Barbarians women’s fixture against Wales will be the second fixture of the day. Earlier in the afternoon the men’s side will take on Wales’ men on what promises to be a high-quality and high-scoring day of rugby.

Already the Barbarians have confirmed that former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson will be head coach of the men’s team, while incoming Harlequins coach Robbie Deans and Patrice Collazzo will be assistant coaches. England back-row Tom Willis has been confirmed as a player ahead of his summer move to Bordeaux-Begles.

Fiona Stockley, Barbarian F.C committee member and Women’s side lead said: “We are proud to be able to name the calibre of coaches we have done in Susie and Sarah. Their standing and respect in the game is second to none and their influence and leadership will drive the team on when they face Wales.

“International fixtures at Allianz Stadium are always a joy. A double header, two Barbarians fixtures will be a great spectacle for rugby supporters and we are looking forward to facing Wales who will be coming off the back of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations so will be ready for the clash!”