Ex-Scotland international named new Sale Sharks defence coach

Former Scotland full-back Byron McGuigan has been named Sale Sharks’ new defence coach, taking over from the recently departed Jamie Langley.

The 10-cap Scotland international spent seven years with Sale before retiring in 2023, where he soon transitioned to become a member of Alex Sanderon’s coaching team.

He has now been promoted to lead the defence of a Sharks outfit who are currently sat in eighth place in the Gallagher Premiership.

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The Namibian-born international has taken charge of the Sharks in the Premiership Rugby Cup this season, guiding them to victories over Doncaster and Caldy.

“Two years ago, Alex came to me and asked if I would like to join the coaching set-up,” the 35-year-old said.

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Leicester

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“I had the option to play one more year or go into coaching, but I had reached a place where I got more satisfaction giving back to the young players coming through, which took over the desire of wanting to play.

“That feeling of affection I have towards coaching came from amateur clubs in and around the North, particularly in the last five years when I was a player here. I coached at Bowdon, Preston and before taking a full time at Rossendale, I’ve loved it. Now to get my own opportunity at Sale, I’m over the moon.

“My passion is defence. There are a few things that we have brought in over the last couple of weeks and we look forward to challenging these systems going into the next block of games.

“The challenge for me is to make our defence effective and bring back our Sharks DNA, physicality, hard work and togetherness, it’s massive for us that’s non-negotiable.

“I want the Sale fans to look at the team and say that’s my team. I’m really proud of that team. There’s a lot of fight and hard work. Exactly what represents the North.”

Director of rugby Sanderson added: “Byron comes with a wealth of experience from both an international and club stage and will be a future international coach. His thirst for rugby knowledge, matched by his passion for the fundamentals of defence, intent before detail is key.

“He’s a constant source of motivation and inspiration for myself and the players. I am confident he is going to re-energise this group.”