Dean Richards Returns As Director of Rugby at Championship Club

Thursday, 02 July 2026 at 22:49

bySteven Smith

Doncaster Knights have confirmed the appointment of former England international and British & Irish Lions legend Dean Richards as their new Director of Rugby with immediate effect.

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The former Leicester Tigers and Newcastle Falcons boss arrives at Castle Park as the Championship club steps up its ambitions both on and off the field.

Richards boasts one of the most impressive CVs in English rugby. During a glittering playing career, the iconic No.8 made 314 appearances for Leicester Tigers, won 48 England caps and represented the British & Irish Lions on six tours.

Since hanging up his boots, he has enjoyed a successful coaching career with Leicester Tigers, FC Grenoble, Harlequins and Newcastle Falcons, where he spent a decade in charge between 2012 and 2022.

'Dean's pedigree speaks for itself'

Doncaster Knights President Steve Lloyd believes Richards' appointment sends a clear statement of intent.

"Dean's rugby pedigree speaks for itself and his thoughts and plans for the future development of the Knights will excite our existing support base and also attract new supporters to the Knights and, potentially, to Yorkshire rugby in general.

"We look forward to welcoming Dean into the Knights family and working as a team to achieve the success the club constantly seeks."

Richards excited by new challenge

Richards admitted the opportunity came unexpectedly but said the club's ambition convinced him to take the role.

"The opportunity to join Doncaster came completely out of the blue, but it is one I simply couldn't ignore.

"Doncaster is a club with genuine ambition, and the vision of everyone involved is clear. The aim is to build a club capable of challenging for promotion, and that's a challenge I'm incredibly excited to be part of.

"I'm now looking forward to meeting the players, coaches, volunteers and supporters at Castle Park. There's a great deal of hard work ahead, but it's an exciting project and one that I'm privileged to lead."

More appointments to follow

Richards is expected to reshape the coaching team, with the club confirming he will bring in his own coaches. Further appointments are set to be announced in the coming weeks.