Ex-Scotland coach Bryan Easson makes swift return to Test rugby

Former Scotland Women’s head coach Bryan Easson has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands men’s national team.

Easson succeeds Lyn Jones in the role after the Welshman stood down earlier this year following the Netherlands’ failure to qualify for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.

Easson, 52, spent five years as Scotland Women’s head coach, leading the team to their highest-ever ranking of fifth and victory in WXV 2 in 2024 before calling it a day after Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.

Easson was Scotland Women’s head coach for a record 48 Tests, 21 of which were wins, and had worked in Scottish Rugby in various roles for the best part of 25 years.

Rugby Nederlands Technical Director Jose Gorrotxategi said: “Bryan has proven expertise in strengthening national performance and development programmes. His experience ranges from professional club rugby to U20 international rugby and senior national teams.

“He played a leading role in the transition to a professional high-performance system in Scotland, linking results with a clear vision, a strong culture, and effective player development programmes. This experience is invaluable to us as we further develop the performance pathway of the Dutch Men’s XV and the future of rugby in the Netherlands.”

The Netherlands’ dreams of making their men’s Rugby World Cup debut were dashed when they lost the Rugby Europe Championship fifth-place play-off to Belgium.

It was a a shock defeat at the time and Easson is looking forward to being part of the rebuild.

He said: “I’m excited to begin this new chapter at Rugby Nederland. I have extensive experience in professional men’s rugby and at the U20 level. Combined with a strong player-focused approach, this experience can help further unlock the potential of Dutch rugby.

“Together with players, staff, and partners, I want to work on sustainable growth and performance, and build a team that performs under pressure and proudly represents the values and identity of the Netherlands.”