The Welsh Rugby Union are reportedly closing in on a blockbuster appointment, with former England football and rugby mastermind Dave Reddin set to take the reins as their new director of rugby.
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According to WalesOnline, Reddin has emerged as the top pick for what is seen as one of the most crucial roles in Welsh rugby’s long-term rebuild — and it’s hard to argue with his credentials.
Who is Dave Reddin?
For those unfamiliar, Reddin is a performance guru with a résumé that reads like a who’s who of British sport. He was England Rugby’s national fitness coach when Sir Clive Woodward’s side lifted the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and later joined Woodward again as part of the coaching staff for the 2005 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand — a tour best forgotten for many reasons, but one that added another feather to Reddin’s cap.
Not stopping at the oval ball, Reddin crossed codes to become a major figure in English football. He spent six years with the FA as Head of Team Strategy & Performance, helping shape elite preparations behind the scenes for the national side. Oh, and he also served as Head of Performance Services at the British Olympic Association, helping power Team GB’s success across multiple Olympic Games.
In recognition of his impact on British sport, Reddin was awarded an MBE in 2004.
A No-Nonsense Operator
Those who’ve worked closely with Reddin describe him as a man who sets sky-high standards — not just for himself, but for everyone in his orbit. Known for his intense professionalism, attention to detail, and a track record of squeezing the very best from elite teams, Reddin’s arrival in Wales could signal a seismic culture shift within the WRU.
The official announcement hasn’t landed just yet, but it looks like Welsh rugby could soon be under the guidance of a man who helped deliver glory on both the rugby field and the global sporting stage. Watch this space.
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Alun Wyn Jones and Owen Farrell included on list of worst British & Irish Lions
The British & Irish Lions is the pinnacle of a player’s career – a chance to prove yourself against the very best. But not everyone rises to the occasion.
While some have cemented their legacies in red jerseys, others have left fans wondering how they even made the squad.
From unfortunate injuries to underwhelming performances, we take a look at some of the worst Lions players across different tours, with big names like Owen Farrell and Alun Wyn Jones making the cut.
2021 tour: Owen Farrell – The forgotten playmaker
Owen Farrell, one of the most recognisable and influential players in modern rugby, endured a tour to forget in South Africa. Despite his vast experience and reputation as a leader, Farrell was named by SA Rugby Mag as the worst-performing Lion on the tour.
Initially expected to play a key role, he started three games and featured off the bench in the first two Tests.
However, as the series decider loomed, head coach Warren Gatland made a brutal call – dropping Farrell from the matchday 23 entirely. It was a stark fall from grace for a player who was once considered indispensable.
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night’s accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night’s accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
2017 tour: Stuart Hogg – A case of bad luck
Stuart Hogg was primed to be the Lions’ Test full-back in 2017, but fate had other plans. The Scottish star suffered a freak injury in the third game of the tour against the Crusaders, colliding with Conor Murray’s elbow and fracturing his eye socket.
While injuries are unfortunate, Hogg’s Lions career as a whole was disappointing. He failed to make a significant impact on the 2013 or 2021 tours either, making him one of the most underwhelming repeat selections in Lions history.
