Former Scotland Women’s head coach Bryan Easson has been named the new head coach of the Netherlands men’s national team.
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The 52-year-old takes over from Lyn Jones, who stepped down earlier this year after the Netherlands failed to qualify for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
That campaign ended in disappointment when the Dutch lost the Rugby Europe Championship fifth-place play-off to Belgium, a result that ended hopes of a first-ever World Cup appearance.
Easson arrives with a wealth of experience after five years in charge of Scotland Women. During his tenure, he guided the side to their highest-ever world ranking of fifth and oversaw victory in WXV 2 in 2024. He later confirmed he would step away following the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.
In total, Easson led Scotland Women in a record 48 Tests, winning 21 of them, and has spent nearly 25 years working within Scottish Rugby across a variety of roles.
Rugby Nederlands Technical Director Jose Gorrotxategi highlighted the breadth of Easson’s background and its relevance to the Dutch programme.
“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.”
Currently ranked 26th in the world, the Netherlands have continued to build visibility on the international stage, including hosting the Cheetahs’ Challenge Cup fixtures in Amsterdam. Easson’s appointment is seen as a key step in a wider rebuild following the shock defeat to Belgium.
According to Rugby Netherlands chairman Friso Horstmeier, the decision reflects long-term planning under the organisation’s Rugby Agenda 2032.
“We deliberately chose a national coach with vision and leadership. Bryan brings structure, international experience, and deep insight into player and coach development across the entire pathway.
“His appointment reflects our ambitions within the Rugby Agenda 2032 and our commitment to building a strong and future-proof Dutch men’s team.”
Easson is equally enthusiastic about the challenge ahead and believes his background can help unlock further progress within Dutch rugby.
“I’m looking forward to starting 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.”
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