Shock coach departure prompts 52-word statement from URC club

High-flying United Rugby Championship outfit Glasgow Warriors have confirmed that assistant coach Roddy Grant has left the club with immediate effect, following the outcome of an internal process.

The former Edinburgh flanker and Scotland 7s player worked with Glasgow’s forwards, with a specific remit for breakdown and contact work. Glasgow say he will not be replaced this season, with the existing coaching structure remaining the same.

Currently, Nigel Carolan (attack) and Scott Forrest (defence) serve under head coach Franco Smith, with support from academy coaches Shade Munro and former Scotland fly-half Duncan Weir.

Glasgow, who are second in the URC table, did not disclose any further details about the nature of Grant’s departure from Scotstoun, his place of work since the summer of 2025.

Prior to joining Glasgow, the 39-year-old had a brief spell as assistant to Richard Cockerill with the Georgia national team.

Cockerill and Grant knew each other from their time together at Edinburgh, where Grant was forwards coach in 2017 when the ex-England hooker took charge of the team.

Botswana-born Grant has been coaching since 2015, having initially developed his craft working with London Scottish and the Scottish Rugby Academy.

A five-year spell at Ulster, which followed his stint at Edinburgh, is the longest he has been at one club.

A statement from Glasgow read: “Glasgow Warriors can confirm that Roddy Grant has left the club following the conclusion of an internal process.

“Grant will not be replaced for the remainder of the 2026/27 season, the club will continue with its existing coaching structure.

“For reasons of confidentiality, the club will not be providing any further comment.”